5:15pm 9/16:  Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in effect for Mercer, Monmouth, Hunterdon, Somerset counties. Significant thunderstorms with heavy rains..potentially damaging winds..and frequent lightning..continue to move east/northeast towards NE NJ and the NYC Metro Area. Stay tuned to NY Metro Weather for continued and updated information on the storms as they move east through the area. Radar image to the left valid 5:15pm 9/16. The storms rolled through my local area (union county, nj) around 5:00-5:15pm. Winds gusted to slightly below severe thunderstorm levels. The two most prevalent features of the storm were the heavy rain and the significant lightning and thunder.  Keep abreast of the situation and stay alert for any further watches, warnings, or advisories as the storms continue east.

A vigorous upper level trough is forecast to pass over north and west of the region Thursday night. In addition to the trough's passage, the system will also bring a strong low level jet that will strengthen northeastward from the New Jersey shore towards Eastern Long Island and Southern New England. Strong winds will exist just above the surface, and although there is some semblance of atmospheric convective inhibition, the potential exists for very strong winds to mix down to the surface in any heavier rain or thunderstorms.

It is recommended that all loose objects outdoors that are not tied down be brought inside as they could be hazardous with these strong winds. Please exercise caution and expect delays on bridges around the area. Pay attention to your local National Weather Service for Watches, Warnings, and Advisories as well as other safety precautions and information.