The following press release is from the South Orange Office of Emergency Management. For up-to-date local weather reports, visit MAPSO Weather:
South Orange is preparing for a powerful nor’easter expected to bring periods of heavy rain, strong and gusty winds, and the potential for downed trees, power outages, and localized flooding through the weekend (Saturday, Sept. 26, and Sunday, Sept. 27).
The storm is expected to strengthen along the East Coast, with the most significant impacts in New Jersey occurring along the coast. Inland communities, including South Orange, are expected to experience periods of rain and strong winds. Forecast conditions may change as the storm develops.
Residents are urged to prepare now, secure outdoor property, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.
Weather Outlook
• Friday: Mostly cloudy with increasing winds; high near 70–72°F
• Friday night: Rain develops, with winds increasing; gusts potentially reaching 35–40 mph
• Saturday: Rain and windy conditions; high near 65–67°F, with wind gusts potentially approaching 40 mph
• Saturday night: Periods of rain continue with strong north winds
• Sunday: Additional periods of rain are likely
• Rain and gusty winds may continue into Monday
The National Weather Service forecast for the South Orange/Essex County area currently calls for 80% precipitation chances Saturday, with additional rain Saturday night and Sunday.
Prepare for Strong Winds
Residents should take precautions before conditions deteriorate:
• Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, umbrellas, grills, decorations, trash cans, and other loose objects
• Trim or secure loose branches where possible
• Avoid parking beneath large trees whenever possible
• Keep windows and doors closed during periods of strong wind
• Use caution around trees and areas with overhead utility wires
• Do not touch or approach downed wires — always assume they are energized
PSE&G has activated its storm response plan and has positioned additional crews and resources throughout its service territory in preparation for possible outages.
Power Outages
Strong winds can bring down trees and branches, potentially damaging power lines and causing outages.
PSE&G recommends that residents:
• Charge cell phones and backup batteries now
• Keep flashlights and fresh batteries readily available
• Have emergency supplies and nonperishable food on hand
• If you rely on electrically powered medical equipment, have a backup plan
• Never approach a downed power line — stay at least 30 feet away and report it immediately
Report a PSE&G outage:
• Call 1-800-436-7734
• Text OUT to 4PSEG (47734)
• Visit the PSE&G Outage Center
PSE&G will prioritize restoration based on safety, system damage, critical facilities, and the number of customers affected.
Generator Safety
If you use a portable generator:
• Operate generators outdoors only
• Keep generators well away from windows, doors, and vents
• Never operate a generator inside a home, garage, basement, or other enclosed space
• Never connect a portable generator directly to household wiring unless using a properly installed transfer switch
• Make sure carbon monoxide detectors are working
Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and can be deadly.
Flooding & Heavy Rain
Periods of heavy rain may cause localized flooding, particularly around poor-drainage areas and roadways.
• Never drive through a flooded roadway
• Turn around if you encounter standing or moving water
• Keep storm drains near your property clear of leaves and debris, where it is safe to do so
• Avoid walking through moving water
• Move vehicles from areas that are prone to flooding when possible
• Report significant flooding or blocked drainage to the Village
While the most serious coastal flooding threat is expected along the Jersey Shore, residents throughout the region should remain alert for changing conditions.
Streets, Trees & Downed Wires
Strong winds can cause tree limbs and branches to fall with little warning.
• Do not approach downed power lines
• Stay clear of damaged trees and utility poles
• If a tree or limb is blocking a roadway, use caution and report it
• Do not drive around barricades or into flooded roadways
• Give emergency crews and utility workers plenty of room to operate
For fallen trees blocking roads, contact the appropriate emergency or municipal services. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911.
Emergency Alerts & Notifications
Stay informed by subscribing to South Orange Alerts & Notifications:
https://www.southorange.org/
Residents are encouraged to monitor Village communications throughout the weekend as conditions and municipal operations may change.
Police Reminders
• Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and strong winds
• Use extra caution around intersections with malfunctioning traffic signals
• Do not touch or drive over downed wires
• Do not park where vehicles could obstruct emergency response operations
• Never leave children or pets unattended near flooded areas
• Follow all posted road closures and emergency instructions
Non-Emergency Requests
• Use 911 for life-threatening emergencies only
• For non-emergency issues:
- Report a Concern
- GovAlert mobile app
Non-priority requests may be delayed during periods of severe weather.
Stay Informed
PSE&G is providing ongoing storm and outage information through its Outage Center, mobile app, and customer communications channels.
For additional storm preparedness information, visit PSE&G Storm Safety.
Please prepare now, stay alert to changing conditions, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. Stay safe, South Orange.
