Minor Tidal Flooding Possible Around Newark Bay and Northeast New Jersey Rivers

NEWARK BAY, NJ — Water may spill onto a limited number of low-lying waterfront roads and properties around Newark Bay, lower New York Harbor and tidally affected rivers in Northeast New Jersey during the next several high-tide cycles, according to the National Weather Service in New York.

The localized risk is being driven primarily by elevated astronomical tides associated with the approaching new moon. Forecasters said tides peak Wednesday, creating the possibility of minor flooding at the most vulnerable shoreline and riverfront locations.

Astronomical tides are expected to fall by approximately one- to two-tenths of a foot by Thursday night. Nevertheless, isolated to scattered minor flooding could occur during another high-tide cycle.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the National Weather Service had not issued a coastal flood advisory or warning for New Jersey. Its formal coastal flood statements covered vulnerable shorelines in parts of New York and Connecticut, while the forecast discussion separately identified lower New York Harbor, Newark Bay and tidally affected Northeast New Jersey rivers as places where localized flooding remains possible.

Minor tidal flooding is generally limited in scope, but it can cover the lowest waterfront roads, parking areas, walkways and other flood-prone locations around high tide. Drivers should never enter a flooded roadway, even when the water appears shallow.

Thunderstorms are also possible Wednesday night into Thursday as a cold front moves through the region. Forecasters currently expect limited impacts and are not anticipating widespread rainfall flooding from that round, although an isolated strong wind gust cannot be ruled out.

Another period of rain is becoming more likely Sunday night into Monday morning. The Weather Service said atmospheric moisture could be elevated, but confidence remains low that the system will produce significant flooding or severe-weather impacts. Details may change as the event approaches.

Residents can monitor the National Weather Service New York/Upton forecast discussion and water levels at NOAA’s Port Elizabeth station on Newark Bay.

Source: National Weather Service New York/Upton Area Forecast Discussion, issued Aug. 12, 2026.

Main photo: Newark Bay, Andreas Praefcke/Wikimedia Commons, public domain.