Tropical storm warning issued for Princeton region

Tropical Storm Isaias will impact the Princeton region late Monday into Wednesday morning.

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has upgraded the tropical storm watch to a tropical storm warning. The warning is in effect for all New Jersey counties, including Mercer County, as well as Bucks, Chester, and Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania.

According to the National Weather Service, the storm will be moving inland over the Carolinas Monday evening and pass through the Princeton region on Tuesday. The storm will diminish by Wednesday morning.

The main threats of the storm are heavy rain leading to flash flooding and some river flooding, strong winds, especially near the coast, minor to potentially moderate coastal flooding, and dangerous marine conditions. The primary concern is flash flooding due to 4 to 6 inches of rain.

Strong winds along the New Jersey and Delaware coasts with wind gusts of 65 to 75 miles per hour are possible, and wind gusts inland could range from 55 to 65 miles per hour. Other secondary threats include minor to locally moderate coastal flooding and the potential for isolated tornadoes. Driving could become dangerous in some areas, and streets and parking lots could become rivers of moving water with underpasses submerged. The National Weather Service predicts that many roads and bridges will be closed due to flooding.

High winds could bring down trees and wires, and damage roofing, siding, porches, awnings, carports, and sheds. Unsecured lightweight objects could become dangerous projectiles.

Scattered power and communications outages are possible. Charge your devices before the storm hits. Make sure you have batteries for your flashlights and candles in the event of a power outage.

If you are in a flood-prone area, consider moving to higher ground. Never drive through a flooded roadway. Turn around don`t drown. If you live in a place that is vulnerable to high wind, such as near large trees, a manufactured home, upper floors of a high-rise building, or you live on a boat, move to a safer shelter before the onset of strong winds or flooding.