North Jersey Braces for Stormy Day with High Winds and Flooding

North Jersey faced a challenging morning as a storm swept in, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. The weather disrupted commutes, with trees falling and roads flooding. The National Weather Service warned that the rain would continue for much of the day. By afternoon, the rain was expected to ease, but the wind would pick up. A wind advisory was in place, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph. These winds could knock over loose items and even uproot weakened trees. Power outages were also a concern, with thousands already affected. The day started with near-record high temperatures in the mid to upper 50s. However, by Friday evening, temperatures were set to drop sharply into the 30s and then into the 20s overnight. This sudden change highlighted the unpredictable nature of December weather.The storm caused significant disruptions, including downed trees on major roads and flooding on key routes. The New Jersey Department of Transportation reported several incidents, including a crash on Route 287 in Oakland. Commuters had to navigate these challenges carefully. Power outages were another issue, with over 8, 600 customers affected, mostly in Sussex County. Bergen County also saw over 1, 000 outages. The strong winds posed a risk of more outages as the day progressed. The storm served as a reminder of how quickly weather conditions can change. Residents were advised to secure outdoor items and stay alert for further updates. The combination of rain, wind, and falling temperatures made for a challenging day in North Jersey.