New Jersey residents were urged to take immediate precautions Friday afternoon as severe thunderstorm warnings went into effect across several counties, with forecasters warning of damaging winds, large hail, and intense lightning activity.
The National Weather Service issued the warnings at approximately 4:10 p.m., covering southeastern Hunterdon County, north-central Mercer County, and southwestern Somerset County. The alert remained active until 5 p.m., as fast-moving storm cells tracked through these regions with the potential to cause significant disruptions.
Beyond the immediate warning areas, a broader severe thunderstorm watch was in place for thirteen counties across the state through 9 p.m. Friday night. Residents in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren counties were advised to stay alert and monitor conditions closely, as a watch indicates that conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop at any time.
Meteorologists pointed to the combination of extreme heat and high humidity, which has gripped the region for a second straight day, as a key factor fueling the storms’ intensity. These conditions create an unstable atmosphere that can rapidly strengthen thunderstorm cells, leading to more dangerous outcomes than typical summer showers.
Forecasters cautioned that some storms moving through the affected areas could produce large hail capable of causing property damage, along with sudden heavy downpours that may lead to localized flooding on roadways. Frequent lightning strikes were also expected, posing risks to anyone outdoors during the storms’ passage.
Perhaps most concerning, wind gusts within these storm cells could reach speeds between 65 and 70 mph — strong enough to snap tree limbs, down power lines, and cause scattered power outages across impacted communities.
Officials encouraged residents to secure loose outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storms, and stay tuned to local alerts as the situation continued to develop throughout the evening. Those in low-lying or flood-prone areas were urged to exercise particular caution given the potential for rapid water accumulation.
