Philadelphia/ Weather & Environment
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Published on May 08, 2024
Philadelphia Braces for Coastal Flooding as NWS Issues Advisory Amid ThunderstormsSource: Unsplash/ Kelly Sikkema

As thunderstorms roll through Philadelphia, residents are gearing up to face more than just a deluge from the skies. The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective from 1 AM to 6 AM EDT on Thursday, warning of up to one foot of inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. This comes on the heels of an earlier advisory that has since expired.

The outlook, spanning through next Tuesday, suggests residents should remain vigilant as minor coastal flooding is set to persistently challenge parts of the region. According to the NWS forecast, flooding begins on the most vulnerable roads along tidal waterways, and some partial or full road closures are possible. Notably, another round of minor coastal flooding is forecast for early Friday morning, demanding heightened readiness from the community.

As per the weather service's update, today's showers and thunderstorms are likely, mainly before 9 a.m., accompanied by patchy fog. The rest of the week will see similar conditions, with chances of showers and thunderstorms remaining high through Friday. Meanwhile, temperatures are predicted to fluctuate, hitting highs near 87°F today and cooling down to around 60°F by Friday.

The service's latest reports offer a detailed account of the tidal conditions, projecting a "Minor" flood impact level for the Delaware River at Philadelphia and Burlington. The tides are expected to come notably higher than usual, with the next significant event occurring early Thursday morning when the tide is forecasted to reach 8.4 feet MLLW (1.7 feet above Mean Higher High Water) in Philadelphia. Spotters are encouraged to report any significant weather conditions, with the statement urging those who witness remarkable changes to act according to standard operating procedures.

For locals, this series of advisories is yet another reminder of the Philadelphia area's vulnerability to such weather events. As the forecast suggests, even a seemingly regular rainy day can quickly escalate into a situation that threatens to submerge streets and disrupt daily life. With the potential for repeated minor coastal flooding in the coming days, the advisories emphasize the importance of preparedness and caution, urging residents to stay informed and ready to adapt to the rapidly changing conditions.