Can Hurricane Lee Hit NJ?

As the Atlantic hurricane season approaches, the possibility of a hurricane making landfall in New Jersey becomes a concern for residents and visitors alike. Recently, a powerful hurricane in the North Atlantic has caught the attention of forecasters and the public alike - Hurricane Lee.

Currently located in the middle of the North Atlantic, Hurricane Lee has been gaining strength and is expected to continue on a track that could potentially bring it close to the East Coast of the United States, including New Jersey.

But can Hurricane Lee actually hit NJ? To answer this question, we need to look at the current forecast and track of the storm.

Current Forecast and Track of Hurricane Lee

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Lee is currently a category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph. The storm is located about 1,200 miles east-southeast of Bermuda and is moving north-northwest at 15 mph.

The latest forecast models suggest that Hurricane Lee will continue to move north-northwest and could potentially brush the East Coast of the United States, including New Jersey. However, it’s still too early to determine with certainty whether the storm will make landfall in the Garden State.

What Would Happen if Lee Hits NJ?

If Hurricane Lee were to make landfall in New Jersey, the impacts would be significant. Residents could expect:

1. Strong Winds: Sustained winds of 70-80 mph with higher gusts, leading to downed trees, power outages, and structural damage.
2. Heavy Rainfall: Total rainfall amounts of 3-6 inches, with isolated areas receiving up to 8 inches, leading to flooding, ponding, and flash flooding.
3. Storm Surge: A surge of 2-4 feet above normal tide levels, potentially causing coastal erosion, flooding, and damage to coastal structures.
4. Tropical Storm Conditions: Tropical storm-force winds and rain could extend inland, affecting the entire state and causing widespread disruptions.

Preparing for the Possibility

While it’s still too early to predict with certainty whether Hurricane Lee will hit NJ, it’s essential to take precautions now to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Monitor the latest forecast: Keep an eye on the latest updates from the NHC and other trusted weather sources to stay informed about the storm’s track and potential impacts.
2. Stock up on supplies: Make sure you have a sufficient supply of non-perishable food, water, and medications in case you’re unable to leave your home.
3. Prepare your home: Board up windows, secure outdoor furniture and decorations, and trim or remove trees and shrubs that could cause damage during strong winds.
4. Create an emergency plan: Make sure you have an evacuation plan in place in case of a mandatory evacuation order.

Conclusion

While it’s still unclear whether Hurricane Lee will hit NJ, it’s crucial to take the potential threat seriously and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe!