Minor Coastal Flooding Expected In New York And New Jersey

Residents along the waterfronts of New Jersey and New York are bracing for a spell of minor coastal flooding this weekend, as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a series of coastal flood statements warning of potential inundation in vulnerable areas. The alerts, released at 3:32 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, pinpoint a window of concern beginning early Sunday morning, stretching across Hudson, Essex, and Union counties in New Jersey, as well as the Bronx, Queens, Suffolk, and Nassau counties in New York. Newark, Belleville, Nutley, and even parts of Staten Island and Brooklyn are also on the list of potentially affected locations, according to the statements.

The NWS coastal flood statement, effective from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026, for New Jersey counties and from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. for affected New York counties, warns of “up to one half foot of inundation above ground level expected in vulnerable areas near the waterfront and shoreline.” Although the flooding is anticipated to be “brief” and “minor,” the agency underscores that even small surges can spell trouble for low-lying neighborhoods and waterfront communities. According to the NWS, “brief minor flooding of the more vulnerable locations near the waterfront and shoreline” is likely, and additional minor flooding could occur with high tide cycles late Sunday through early Monday.

While the oncoming storm responsible for these conditions will remain too far out in the Atlantic to bring another round of snow to the region, its impact on tides and river levels is enough to keep local authorities and residents on alert. In Essex County, areas of Belleville and Nutley that border the Passaic River could see water levels rise, with Newark and the shores of New York Bay also at risk. The statement extends its reach to portions of Staten Island and Brooklyn, reflecting the interconnectedness of the region’s waterways and the wide scope of the advisory.

“Do not drive through flooded roadways,” the NWS cautions in its statements, a warning that comes with the weight of experience. Even minor flooding can catch drivers off guard, turning a familiar commute into a dangerous gamble. The agency’s guidance is clear: safety comes first, and avoiding flooded streets is non-negotiable.

For those trying to make sense of the array of weather alerts, the NWS offers a breakdown of terminology. A flash flood warning signals that a flash flood is either imminent or already underway—time to take immediate action and move to higher ground. A flood warning means flooding is occurring or about to occur, necessitating prompt action as well. A flood advisory, like the one in effect this weekend, indicates flooding isn’t expected to reach dangerous levels but still poses a risk of inconvenience and, if not heeded, potential harm to life and property. Finally, a flood watch means conditions are ripe for flooding, so residents should be prepared.

These distinctions aren’t just semantics—they’re a matter of public safety. As the NWS explains, “A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.” The agency’s advice is to stay informed, stay alert, and know what each alert means for your immediate actions.

Flood safety doesn’t stop at understanding alerts. The NWS lays out a series of practical steps for residents in flood-prone areas or anyone who may find themselves in harm’s way. The first rule? Move to higher ground if you’re in a low-lying area or a place known for flooding. If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it promptly—don’t wait until it’s too late. Secure your home before leaving, and if you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.

Basements and rooms with submerged electrical outlets or cords are particularly dangerous during floods. If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate immediately and avoid any water that could be electrically charged. And never, under any circumstances, attempt to walk through floodwaters. As the NWS points out, “Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.” If you become trapped by rising water, seek the highest point possible and call 911 for emergency assistance.

Driving during heavy rainfall presents its own set of challenges, and the NWS provides a suite of tips for staying safe on slick, waterlogged roads. Start by maintaining a greater following distance—what’s usually a two-second gap should be doubled to four seconds in wet conditions. Slow down, ease off the accelerator, and avoid sudden braking, which can cause your vehicle to skid. Stick to the middle lanes, where water is less likely to pool, and keep your headlights on for visibility.

The first half-hour after rain begins is especially treacherous, as oil and grime mix with water to create slippery surfaces. Large trucks and buses can further reduce your visibility with tire spray, so keep your distance and pass with caution. If your windshield wipers can’t keep up with the downpour and visibility drops, pull over safely—preferably in a rest area or, if necessary, as far off the road as possible beyond guardrails. Turn on your headlights and emergency flashers to alert other drivers to your presence.

For those parking or walking near waterways, the NWS has a simple directive: don’t do it. Swiftly moving water in culverts or drainage ditches can pose a grave danger, even if it doesn’t look threatening at first glance. And when it comes to driving through water on the road, the agency is unequivocal: “As little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles.”

With tides expected to ebb and flow throughout Sunday and into early Monday, waters could reemerge in vulnerable spots along the coast. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant, monitor weather updates, and heed all official advice. The overall impact, while expected to be minor, is a timely reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of preparedness—especially in densely populated urban and suburban landscapes where even a half-foot of water can disrupt lives and livelihoods.

In the end, the NWS’s message is straightforward: stay informed, exercise caution, and don’t underestimate the risks of coastal flooding, no matter how brief or minor it may seem. For the communities along the New Jersey and New York waterfronts, it’s a weekend to keep one eye on the tide and the other on safety.