Tornado watch in effect for Princeton region until 10 p.m. Wednesday, flood watch through Thursday morning

A tornado watch has been issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly for Mercer, Somerset, Middlesex, Hunterdon, Burlington, Monmouth, and Ocean counties until 10 p.m. on Wednesday night. A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Review emergency plans and check supplies, and be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching.

A flash flood watch is also in effect for Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey and Bucks County in Pennsylvania through Thursday morning. The remnants of Hurricane Ida will pass through the region Wednesday afternoon and evening. Periods of heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms could result in widespread rainfall totals of three to six inches, with higher amounts possible in some areas. Much of the rainfall could occur in a short period of time, exacerbating flooding. Combined with wet conditions from previous storms, this could lead to numerous instances of flash flooding. Some flooding could be significant. Flooding of creeks, streams, urban areas, and poor drainage areas is likely in the areas that receive the heaviest amount of rain. Water is likely to cover the roads, especially in low-lying areas. Moderate to major flooding is possible along some rivers, and roads and buildings near these rivers may be flooded. Don’t drive through flooded roads. Turn around instead.