High Wind Warning Begins Friday Afternoon With 60mph Gusts Forecast

An American flag against a sunset. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for Ocean County beginning Friday afternoon, advising residents that wind gusts could reach more than 60 m.p.h.

The warning goes into effect at 2 p.m. Friday and will last through 4 a.m. Saturday morning. According to a statement from the NWS office in Mount Holly, the region will experience sustained northwest winds 25 to 35 m.p.h. with gusts up to 60 m.p.h. or slightly higher expected.

“Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines,” the statement said. “Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.”

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The strongest wind gusts – those in the 60 m.p.h. range – are most likely to occur from late Friday afternoon through the predawn hours Saturday, the NWS forecast said.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the advisory went on to say. “Use caution if you must drive.”

Despite the wind, forecasters are predicting a sunny day both Friday and Saturday. Friday’s high will reach 67 degrees and Saturday will see a 62 degree high. The winds are expected to calm down by Sunday, which will be mostly sunny with a high of 72 degrees.