NAM model forecasting a line of showers and storms near the area around 8:00pm today.

A persistent and stagnant storm in the mid and upper levels of the atmosphere has finally made it's way towards the area, and it brought a cold front through the region on Thursday. Showers and thunderstorms were widespread throughout the day, even becoming strong to severe during the afternoon. Areas of Northeast New Jersey experienced 0.88" hail and severe, damaging winds...which toppled trees and caused damage in Eastern Bergen County. This front has since passed the area, but the system is beginning it's interaction with another storm to it's north. As the two "phase" (meteorological term for interact/become one), another low pressure area will come up the east coast Saturday morning. The trouble in Fridays forecast is trying to time the re-development of showers and storms, and see if we can squeak out a dry day to close out the week. Remaining totally dry seems somewhat unlikely, but during the afternoon temperatures should reach into the middle to upper 70's with some sun. Afterwards, showers and storms are forecast to develop...scattered at first...by early evening, and then become more widespread by early Saturday morning

THE FORECAST..

Today (Friday): Partly cloudy early, with a chance isolated of showers and thunderstorms. Then becoming mostly cloudy by evening, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms overnight. High near 78. South-southwest winds around 10 miles per hour. It will feel pretty warm during the afternoon--so don't be fooled by the chance of showers..if you're heading out, don't wear anything too heavy. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Tonight: Mostly cloudy, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Low temperatures falling to near 60 overnight, with a westerly breeze developing. Definitely bring the rain gear in case, and dress appropriately as temperatures will feel pretty cool. Chance of precipitation is 50%

ALDS GAME 1 FORECAST...

The New York Yankees are scheduled to play the first game of the American League Division Series tonight, squaring off against the Detroit Tigers at 8:37pm at Yankee Stadium. Showers and thunderstorms, albiet scattered, are in the forecast. For the very latest on the development of showers and storms as the game approaches, check our latest forecast for the game (both game 1 and 2). Also, be sure to check our Twitter Feed for up to the minute updates.

Article written by JH. Published September 30th, 2011 at 12:01am. Looking for a forecast? See New York Metro Weather's Long Range Forecast for the upcoming weekend, or view our Technical Forecast Discussion for the more serious weather enthusiasts. Also, check out our new Forecast Overview tab. For up to the minute details on forecasts, watches, warnings, and alerts, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.