A separate storm system is currently impacting the Philadelphia region with rain, while Hurricane Erin is on the move, expanding in size and heading northward.
The hurricane is projected to reach the coast of New Jersey by Thursday, bringing with it hazardous winds of up to 50 miles per hour.
This poses serious risks, including life-threatening rip currents, widespread coastal flooding, and potential beach erosion along the shores.
As the storm moves closer, predictions indicate that there may be interaction between the storm system and Hurricane Erin, which could intensify the threat of coastal flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings about the possibility of isolated flash flooding in the area on Wednesday afternoon and evening.
They emphasize that “significant coastal hazards” are likely from Wednesday through Friday across the region.
In anticipation of the conditions, parts of the Philadelphia area could experience coastal flooding through early Saturday morning.
While Hurricane Erin’s center is expected to track around 350 to 450 miles south and east of Philadelphia, the hurricane’s expanding wind field could still impact the area.
The National Weather Service stated, “Our region is expected to see gusty winds, minor to moderate tidal flooding, high surf, and life-threatening rip currents.”
Due to the hazardous conditions, many Jersey Shore beaches have closed to swimming this week to ensure public safety.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy urged residents to avoid complacency, stating, “This is no time to be complacent. I would just say to you flat out, don’t go in the water.”
The following beaches are currently closed to swimming:
– Atlantic City: Knee-deep bathing only, no boogie boards, expected to be enforced all week.
– Avon: Expected to remain in place all week.
– Bay Head: No swimming on Wednesday.
– Beach Haven: Closure until further notice.
– Belmar: Expected to remain in place all week.
– Bradley Beach: Expected to be implemented throughout the week.
– Brigantine: Expected to remain enforced all week.
– Cape May: Closure until further notice.
– Harvey Cedars: Closure until further notice.
– Island Beach State Park: No swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, and mobile sport fishing vehicle access through at least Thursday.
– Long Beach Township: Closure until further notice.
– Long Branch: Closure in effect through Friday.
– Point Pleasant: Closure until further notice.
– Ocean City: Closure until further notice.
– Ocean Grove: Expected to be in place all week.
– Seaside Heights: Expected to remain in place for the week.
– Seaside Park: Expected to stay enforced all week.
– Ship Bottom: Closure until further notice.
– Ventnor: Closure until further notice.
– Wildwoods: No swimming or surfing until further notice.
In addition, a High Surf Advisory and High Rip Current Risk Statement are in effect for all Jersey Shore beaches through Friday.
A Wind Advisory has also been issued for all coastal zones from Ocean County south.
Governor Murphy appealed to the public, stating, “Please, please, please take this seriously. Particularly push back on complacency, on the human nature of ‘gosh, it’s beautiful outside. Let’s sneak a quick dip in the water.’ This is not the week to do that.”
Looking at the current forecast for the Philadelphia region, Wednesday brings a chance of showers before 2 p.m., with potential thunderstorms later in the day.
The expected high is around 77 degrees, with winds from the east at 5 to 10 mph.
Rainfall could vary, with thunderstorms producing higher amounts.
Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are still likely before 3 a.m., with a low around 65 degrees.
The forecast for Thursday predicts a slight chance of showers after 8 a.m. with a high of 73 degrees.
Northeast winds may gust up to 30 mph.
As the week progresses, Friday looks sunny with temperatures reaching as high as 82 degrees, setting the stage for clearer skies as the weekend approaches.
image source from：patch
