US: Flash flood warnings in effect for parts of northern New Jersey and southeastern New York State until at least 22:00 Aug. 18

The US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for various parts of northern New Jersey and southeastern New York State on Aug. 18, including the following areas:

• Northwestern Bergen County and Passaic County, New Jersey, as well as Orange County, western Putnam County, Rockland County, and northern Westchester County, New York: A flash flood warning is in effect until at least 20:45 Aug. 18.

• Central Bergen County, Essex County, eastern Passaic County, Sussex County, Union County, and northeastern Warren County, New Jersey, as well as Rockland County, New York: A flash flood warning is in effect until at least 21:45 Aug. 18.

• Morris County, north-central Somerset County, northeastern Hunterdon County, southeastern Sussex County, and east-central Warren County, New Jersey: A flash flood warning is in effect until at least 22:00 Aug. 18.

Officials could amend the warnings for the impacted areas and/or extend them to the surrounding regions on short notice over the coming hours.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites. Transport, electricity, and telecommunications disruptions are also possible in areas impacted by flooding.