New Jersey can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Hurricane Erin, which grazed the Garden State’s coastline this week, is now pulling away, leaving behind rough surf, dangerous rip currents, and some lingering coastal flooding. While most of the state is already enjoying a cool, refreshing breeze out of the north, coastal areas may see a few more hours of mist and cloud cover tonight as the final remnants of Erin make their exit.
For those tracking the storm’s effects, Chris Huch of the Jacques Cousteau National Estuarine Research Reserve and Stockton College Marine Sciences provided expert insight on the remaining coastal flooding. Tonight’s high tide is the last of concern, influenced by two forces: northeast winds wrapping around Erin’s cyclonic center and the radiating ground swell from the southeast.
Coastal Flooding: Minor Stage Likely
Earlier today, the first high tide brought only minor coastal flooding, and forecasts suggest tonight’s second high tide will likely stay in the minor category, with only a small chance of reaching higher-end moderate flooding. According to Huch, the northeast wind swell has “overperformed,” while the ground swell has “underperformed,” which means flooding should be less severe than initially feared. Street-level flooding has already been observed in some areas, but conditions are improving as winds shift to due north and waves begin to subside.
Despite this positive outlook, beachgoers are strongly advised to avoid swimming along the Jersey shore until at least Saturday. Rip currents remain extremely dangerous, and even experienced swimmers should exercise caution. Surfers may be tempted to take advantage of the large waves, but the currents and rough surf make conditions risky.
Beach Erosion and Recovery
Beach erosion from Erin’s passage will be assessed over the weekend once the waves, rip currents, and coastal flooding subside. Coastal experts anticipate some damage, but fortunately, the storm largely skirted New Jersey rather than making a direct hit. This close call could have been far more damaging if upper-level weather patterns had shifted differently.
Looking Ahead: Beautiful End-of-Summer Weather
The good news is that refreshing weather is on the way. Friday and Saturday are expected to be clear, sunny, and comfortable, with highs in the upper 70s to low 80s and dew points dropping into the 50s and 60s. After the humidity bottoms out for the weekend, a brief increase in dew points and possible thunderstorms is expected Sunday into Monday, but conditions should return to dry, pleasant weather by Monday night.
For most New Jersey residents, this marks the end of the hot, humid summer days, at least through Labor Day. While occasional 90+ degree days in September or even October remain possible, Erin’s passage signals the approach of cooler, more comfortable weather for the final weeks of summer.
Key Takeaways for Jersey Shore Residents
- Final high tide tonight: minor coastal flooding possible; stay alert near the shore.
- Rip currents: remain dangerous; avoid swimming until at least Saturday.
- Surf: still rough, gradually subsiding through Friday and early Saturday.
- Humidity and sunshine: Friday and Saturday will feature refreshing low humidity and plenty of sun.
- Thunderstorms: minor risk Sunday into Monday, then dry weather returns.
- Beach erosion: assessment will occur over the weekend as conditions settle.
New Jersey dodged a potentially dangerous scenario thanks to fortunate upper-level weather patterns, including southern ridges and the northern jet stream. Residents can now enjoy the refreshing post-storm conditions and prepare for a comfortable late summer at the Jersey shore.
For ongoing updates on New Jersey weather, tropical systems, and coastal conditions, visit our Weather Report section for the latest news and expert insights.
