Officials: Prepare For Wind, Power Outages

Frozen ground, damaged infrastructure and a big storm front could provide headaches in our area in the form of flooding, wind damage and power outages, according to officials.

The National Weather Service is reporting possible heavy rainfall and high winds throughout Central and North Jersey after 7 p.m. Wednesday and Kristin Kline, meteriologist with the National Weather Service in Mount Holly,  said there is currently a flash flood watch for Morris county.

"It depends on where the heavier downpours occur, and how much thunderstorm activity occurs," Kline said. "We are expecting some scattered and fast-moving showers to move in in the late afternoon and evening hours."

Mendham Borough Department of Public Works Superintendent Ken O'Brien has been monitoring the forecasted "foul weather" and wants businesses and residents in the area to prepare for the storm now while they have a chance.

"We have put together a few suggestions for homeowners and business to take into consideration before this evening," O'Brien said.

• The ground is frozen. This will lead to more flooding. Make sure your sump pump is working and is clear. Ice can build up in the line coming out with the deep cold we have had.
• Wind damage is a concern. Make sure any holiday decorations and or grill covers and yard items are secure. Make sure trash can lids are tight or secured.
• Fill up with gas on your way home. Many tree’s are weakened by Sandy and there is a higher chance than normal of a power outage tonight.
• Allow extra travel time Thursday morning.
• Have foul weather gear and flashlights ready.

O'Brien said he didn't want anyone to panic, but rather to not be surprised if the weather causes complications.

"There are tree's all over the state of with weak roots from Sandy and we are expecting winds of close to 50 mph overnight and lot's of rain," O'Brien said. "The top few inches of the ground is frozen and this will lead to more runoff than usual.

The National Weather Service is reporting the possibility for trees coming down, or power lines being brought down by the winds, with the potential for power outages throughout the entire region.