Some thunderstorms might become severe later today

    Thunderstorms are possible today as a cold front approaches from the west and enters an area of atmospheric instability, forecasters say.

    Some of the storms might reach severe levels.

    The activity is possible during the late afternoon and evening hours, according to the National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, NJ.

    The thunderstorms, possibly embedded within a narrow squall line, could produce isolated damaging wind gusts and heavy showers.

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    As the line marches toward the coast, forecasters expect it to weaken due to the cooler ocean influence.

    The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center places the Jersey Shore in the “marginal risk” category for severe thunderstorm development, meaning a chance of “isolated severe storms of either limited organization and longevity, or very low coverage and marginal intensity.”

    The remainder of New Jersey and further west is within the “slight risk” category, implying the chance of scattered, as opposed to isolated, severe thunderstorms. 

    NOAA defines a severe thunderstorm as producing hail at least one of the following: hail at one-inch in diameter, a wind gust of 58 miles per hour or greater, or a tornado.

    Skies will gradually clear tonight, and it will be much cooler compared to recent nights, with temperatures dropping down into upper 30s.

    Much more seasonable weather is ahead tomorrow, featuring sunny skies and temperatures at or slightly above normal in the middle to upper 40s. A breeze will make it feel cooler.

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