BURLINGTON, MONMOUTH AND OCEAN COUNTIES, NEW JERSEY — A tornado warning has been issued late Monday night as strong thunderstorms sweep across parts of southern and central New Jersey.
The warning remains in effect until 12:15 a.m. Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.
Residents in the warned areas are being urged to seek shelter immediately inside a sturdy building and stay away from windows.
Tornado Warning Details
The National Weather Service said radar detected wind rotation, which can indicate the possible formation of a tornado.
At this time, officials have not reported any confirmed funnel clouds on the ground. However, forecasters warn that conditions could change rapidly.
If a tornado were to touch down, potential impacts include:
- Flying debris capable of causing serious injuries
- Damage or destruction of mobile homes
- Structural damage to roofs and windows
- Vehicle damage
- Downed trees and power lines
Meteorologists emphasized the importance of remaining indoors until the warning expires.
Earlier Tornado Watch Lifted
Earlier Monday, 16 of New Jersey’s 21 counties were placed under a tornado watch from the afternoon through 7 p.m.
That watch was lifted shortly before 6 p.m. when forecasters determined the tornado threat had diminished temporarily.
However, meteorologists warned that additional strong to severe thunderstorms could develop later in the evening as a powerful cold front moved through the state.
Power Outages Across the State
Storm activity earlier in the day caused widespread power disruptions.
According to utility company data:
- More than 10,500 homes and businesses lost power as of 1:30 p.m.
- Outages dropped significantly to approximately 900 by 6:30 p.m.
Officials noted that gusty winds were strong enough to snap tree branches and bring down power lines in some areas.
Safety Precautions
The National Weather Service advises residents in tornado-warning areas to:
- Move to the lowest level of a sturdy building
- Stay in an interior room away from windows
- Avoid mobile homes and vehicles
- Monitor local alerts and weather updates
Weather conditions are expected to remain unstable through the overnight hours.
Ongoing Monitoring
Forecasters continue to track the storm system as it moves across New Jersey. Emergency management officials are closely monitoring conditions and advising residents to remain alert.
