The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch for Union County, including New Providence, running from Tuesday morning, July 28, through Wednesday morning, July 29, warning of heavy rainfall that could overwhelm local storm drains and flood roadways.
Three flood alerts in 10 days.
A slow-moving low-pressure system is expected to bring multiple rounds of heavy showers and thunderstorms through Wednesday, with 2 to 5 inches of rain possible across the region, according to the New York Post. Rainfall rates in the strongest storms could reach 2 to 3 inches per hour, according to Gothamist, with the potential for life-threatening flash flooding, particularly Tuesday afternoon and evening across northeast New Jersey.
The New Providence Office of Emergency Management posted a civic alert Tuesday warning that heavy rain may lead to rapid flooding of roadways, low-lying areas, small streams, and locations with poor drainage. The OEM said rainfall rates may overwhelm stormwater systems in a short period of time.
As we reported July 19, a Flash Flood Warning hit the area Saturday, July 18. Another Flood Watch followed Tuesday, July 21, when forecasters warned of isolated totals reaching 3 to 4 inches. Tuesday's forecast calls for thunderstorms with a high of 77 degrees; Wednesday brings more showers with a high of 80.
Storm Team 4 NY reported on X that a Flash Flood Warning had already been issued for Union County on Tuesday, July 28, until 6:45 p.m., indicating conditions were deteriorating beyond watch level in parts of the region.
What residents should do
The Borough OEM urged residents to take these steps:
- Clear leaves and debris from storm drains and curb inlets near their property to improve drainage. Do not enter a flooded roadway or storm drain to remove debris.
- Watch for damaged trees and hanging branches that could fall during heavy rain or gusty winds.
- Follow the "Turn Around, Don't Drown" rule: never drive or walk through floodwaters.
- Ensure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on their phones and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.
The OEM said it will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates. Residents should report significant flooding or storm damage through appropriate channels, reserving 9-1-1 for emergencies only.
Federal flood mitigation funding advances
Separately, Rep. Tom Kean Jr. announced Monday, July 27, that the House Appropriations Committee approved $3 million for a Passaic River Regional Flooding Mitigation Project covering New Providence, Summit, Berkeley Heights, Long Hill, and Chatham Borough. The funding would clear major obstructions from Passaic River tributaries and shore up stream banks. The same package includes $245,000 to replace 47 aging portable radios for the New Providence Police Department.
"These investments will improve roads and bridges, modernize water infrastructure, strengthen public safety, support our first responders, and help towns complete critical projects without placing the full burden on local property taxpayers," Kean said when announcing the $17.7 million district-wide package on July 23.
Both items still need to pass the full House.
