Nor’easter Batters Central Jersey with Heavy Rain, High Winds, and Coastal Flooding
The governor declared a state of emergency ahead of the massive storm.
October 12, 2025
***Updated October 13***
A slow-moving nor’easter pummelled the Jersey shore and large parts of Central Jersey with heavy rain, high wind gusts, and the threat of flooding.
Some areas experienced wind gusts up to 50-60 miles per hour overnight, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The latest weather maps show the threat of flooding moving inland as rivers begin to swell from storm surge and heavy overnight rain.
Coastal flooding threats remain in effect until late tonight due to the slow-moving nature of the storm.
Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency effective Saturday, October 11 at 10 p.m., citing risks of flash flooding, coastal inundation, and damaging winds. Residents are being urged to avoid unnecessary travel and to secure outdoor items ahead of the storm’s arrival.
According to the NWS, coastal flood hazards are in effect for all Atlantic coastal areas of New Jersey and Delaware, the Delaware Bay, and tidal sections of the Delaware River from Sunday through Monday night.
Forecasters warn of moderate to major flooding in some locations, especially during high tide cycles. “Widespread roadway flooding, significant structural inundation, and evacuations are possible,” the agency said in its briefing.
Strong Winds and Dangerous Surf Expected
Gusts of 50 to 60 miles per hour are expected along the New Jersey and Delaware coasts, with 30 to 40 mph gusts inland. The NWS has issued a High Wind Warning for coastal areas and a Wind Advisory for inland counties adjacent to the shore.
Power outages and downed trees are possible, particularly near the coast. PSE&G said Friday that its crews are on alert and ready to respond to outages.
“Gusty winds can bring branches down on wires, which can lead to potential power outages,” the company said in a social media update, adding that its teams are “fueled up and ready to work 24/7” to restore service safely.
The storm is also expected to generate extremely dangerous marine conditions, with seas reaching 15 to 20 feet in the ocean waters and rough surf along the Delaware Bay. The NWS warns that “substantial beach erosion and dune breaching are likely.”
Moderate coastal flooding continues across coastal New Jersey and Delaware, with another round of moderate to major flooding expected during the next high tide cycle. (Source: National Weather Service)
Rainfall and Inland Impacts
Rainfall totals are forecast between 1 and 3 inches across most of New Jersey, with the highest amounts near the coast. Although totals have trended slightly lower than earlier projections, forecasters caution that heavy rain on top of high tides could worsen flooding in low-lying areas.
Officials in several towns, including Rahway and Clark, issued local advisories urging residents to stay alert and use caution on roadways. Rahway’s Office of Emergency Management advised residents that flooding is possible and to “avoid flooded roadways,” while Clark police reminded residents in low-lying neighborhoods that they may park at the municipal police lot on Westfield Avenue as a precaution.
Safety and Preparedness
The National Weather Service recommends residents follow all local emergency instructions and prepare for possible evacuation if conditions worsen.
“Do not drive through flooded roads or parking lots,” officials said in a Saturday evening post. “If you become stranded, stay indoors and move to the highest floor.”