The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued a tornado watch for 17 New Jersey counties as Tropical Storm Debby — which has drenched areas from Florida to southeast North Carolina — heads toward the region readying for its final act.
The warning has been issued in response to the detection of tornadoes or conditions favorable for tornado development in the region. Radar and weather reports have indicated the presence of severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes.
“Tornadoes, strong winds, and some flooding are all possible across our entire area through this evening. If you experience any wind damage or flooding, we appreciate any reports you have to pass along to us, if it is safe to do so,” said a bulletin out of the National Weather Service office serving Philadelphia, which is located in Mount Holly, New Jersey.
The tornado watch, in place until 2 p.m., means tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Residents in the watch area should be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued.
The watch is in place in the following New Jersey counties: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren.
A Flood Warning continues for rivers in the area. Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas.
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly also issued a Wind Advisory for parts of New Jersey and Pennsylvania along the I-95 corridor. This advisory will remain in effect from 10:00 AM EDT today, August 9, 2024, until 8:00 PM EDT this evening.
The advisory covers central, northern, northwest, and southern New Jersey, as well as southeast Pennsylvania. Specific areas include, but are not limited to, Glassboro, Philadelphia, Trenton, Morrisville, West Chester, and Cherry Hill.
Southeast winds of 10 to 20 mph are expected, with occasional gusts reaching 45 to 50 mph. These conditions are likely to persist throughout the day.
New Jersey has experienced several tornadoes in recent years, demonstrating the state’s susceptibility to severe weather.
Notable tornadoes include an event in August 2021, which struck southern New Jersey, causing damage to homes and infrastructure in Gloucester County. In July 2020, tornadoes affected central New Jersey, particularly Mercer and Middlesex Counties, resulting in property damage and power outages due to a line of severe thunderstorms.
A tornado in May 2018 hit northern New Jersey, including Morris and Sussex Counties, damaging buildings and utility lines.
These tornadoes have caused significant property damage, including ripped-off roofs, shattered windows, and compromised structures.
Tornadoes have also disrupted infrastructure, leading to downed power lines and damaged roads, with utility companies facing challenges in restoring services.
While injuries have occurred, fatalities in New Jersey from tornadoes have been relatively rare. Emergency services respond by setting up shelters, conducting damage assessments, and providing assistance to affected residents. Utility crews work to restore power and repair infrastructure as quickly as possible.
During tornadoes, residents are advised to seek shelter in sturdy buildings, preferably in small, windowless interior rooms on the lowest floor. After a tornado, it is important to avoid handling debris or downed power lines and to report hazardous conditions to local authorities.
As severe weather events continue to impact New Jersey, the National Weather Service and local authorities stress the need for preparedness and response, urging residents to stay informed through weather alerts and have an emergency plan in place. For the latest updates, residents should monitor local news and the NWS website.
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