Flood watch expands to entire state. Latest N.J. forecast for nasty coastal storm.

The first half of the weekend is is likely to be a washout in New Jersey with forecasters calling for 2 to 3.5 inches of rain, prompting a statewide flood watch, along with gusty winds that could lead to power outages.

Rain will start after midnight with multiple rounds of moderate to heavy rain likely from Saturday morning into the afternoon, the National Weather Service said. Rain will taper off Saturday night.

Rainfall totals of 4 inches are possible through central New Jersey along a corridor that stretches from coastal Monmouth County to Gloucester County.

Most of New Jersey will get battered by winds gusts of 30 mph with some gusts as high as 45 mph along the Jersey Shore, forecasters say. AccuWeather.com said it’s concerned about beach erosion as well.

A flood watch is in effect for the entire state from late Friday through Sunday morning. Minor flooding is possible along rivers and in low-lying urban areas, according to the weather service.

The Passaic and Raritan River basins, though, are at risk for moderate flooding. Coastal flooding also remains a risk on Sunday and Monday, too.

Highs on Saturday will be in the low to mid 50s.

Temperatures on Saturday night are expected to plunge into the 20s and 30s ahead of what will be a dry Sunday.

Highs on Sunday will also be in the 50s with winds expected to diminish in the afternoon under mostly sunny skis.

Ahead of the storm, Friday will also be generally OK with dry conditions and a less chilly day than Thursday due to very light winds.

Highs will be in the upper 40s in most spots with sunshine expected. Monday and Tuesday are shaping up as decent days as well with some sun, light winds and highs in the low 50s.

Current weather radar