STORM WATCH

Downpours, localized flooding, and strong gusts impact New Jersey today

Moderate drought expands in Central New Jersey and in regions in Northern New Jersey

With the recent rain being abrupt and intense, it is difficult for the ground to absorb the water that runs off.

Mike Rizzo

Jul 18, 2024, 4:39 PM

Updated 146 days ago

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Current drought outlook shows a moderate drought is occurring in Mercer County and surrounding areas in southern Hunterdon and northern Burlington counties. There is also a moderate drought for communities along the Passaic River Valley in Northern New Jersey and the northern areas of Warren County.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, impacts in regions under a MODERATE DROUGHT typically experience:
  • Honey production declines
  • Irrigation use increases; hay and grain yields are lower than normal
  • Trees and landscaping are stressed; fish are stressed
  • Voluntary water conservation is requested; reservoir and lake levels are below normal capacity
  • Wildfires and ground fires increase
With the recent rain being abrupt and intense, it is difficult for the ground to absorb the water that runs off. We anticipate a continuation of dry weather conditions that extend into the weekend and next week. Chances for rain increase on Monday, but the state needs steady lighter rain that occurs at a lower intensity so that the ground can absorb it much easier.