A tornado watch has been issued for ten counties in central and southern New Jersey, as well as parts of eastern Pennsylvania, due to the possibility of small tornadoes impacting the area Friday night. The National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center announced the watch shortly before 5 p.m. It encompasses the following New Jersey counties: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Monmouth, Ocean, and Salem.
It’s important to note that a tornado watch indicates conditions are favorable for tornado development but is not as urgent as a tornado warning. Residents should remain vigilant as stormy weather approaches, particularly as strong thunderstorms have already been affecting regions south and west of New Jersey. These storms could lead to rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour, creating risks of flash flooding.
Furthermore, a flood watch is in effect from 7 p.m. Friday to 8 a.m. Saturday for specific counties including Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, and Warren. Another flood watch extends from 8 p.m. Friday until 11 a.m. Saturday for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic, and Union counties.
Forecasters predict a slight chance of a tornado touching down Friday evening into early Saturday, with the highest risk in southern New Jersey. Should a tornado warning be issued, residents are advised to seek refuge in a sturdy building and avoid windows.
In addition to the tornado watch, a wind advisory was proclaimed shortly after 9 p.m. Friday for Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Ocean, and Salem counties. This advisory, effective from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday, anticipates westerly winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 50 mph.
As the region braces itself for the severe weather, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared. The potential for tornadoes and flooding serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of community preparedness.