CRANFORD, NJ — Although the remnants of Ian will not directly impact the Union County area, a strong front system invigorated by Ian is expected to lift into the northern Mid-Atlantic states tonight through early next week, according to Cranford's Office of Emergency Management (OEM).

The OEM is warning residents of moderate to heavy rainfall and gusty winds this weekend.

About 1.75 to 2 inches of rainfall is expected for the Cranford area beginning Saturday morning and lasting throughout the day, the OEM stated.

Rain is expected to taper to showers for late Saturday night and the latter part of the weekend. Breezy conditions are expected begin on Saturday and winds could occasionally gust over 30mph late Saturday night and Sunday.

"It is important to note that due to the drought conditions in the area, river flooding issues are not anticipated," the OEM states. "Widespread wind issues are also not expected for this area."

However, the OEM says localized flash flooding of poor drainage areas and roadways is possible Saturday during the periods of heaviest rainfall.

Residents are told not to attempt to drive through flooded roadways and to pay attention to flood advisory and warnings from the National Weather Service regarding the flash flood threat.

The Cranford Public Works Department has been clearing storm basins in advance of the storm.

Though river flooding is not likely, the river gates at Sperry Park will be partially opened Friday out of an abundance of caution, according to the OEM.

OEM and DPW will also be monitoring conditions throughout the weekend.

You can view the full forecast for the Union County area this weekend on the National Weather Service website.

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