Toms River, NJ – A fast-moving line of severe thunderstorms swept across southern and central New Jersey early Friday, prompting warnings for damaging winds and hail in multiple counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, the storm was first tracked near Brookville around 5:47 a.m., moving east at 60 mph. The severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect until 6:45 a.m. and includes central Ocean County and much of southern New Jersey, including Atlantic City, Toms River, and surrounding towns.
Radar indicated wind gusts reaching 60 mph and hail up to one inch in diameter. The storm threatens minor vehicle damage and potential wind damage to roofs, siding, trees, and power lines.
Affected areas include Camden, Gloucester, Burlington, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Salem counties. Key cities under the warning are Pleasantville, Barnegat, Whiting, Brigantine, and Manahawkin. Several major roadways, including sections of the Garden State Parkway, Atlantic City Expressway, and New Jersey Turnpike, are within the impacted zone.
Residents are urged to take shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning is being reported, making outdoor activity especially dangerous.
The storm is expected to move offshore after 6:45 a.m., but residual rain and wind may persist through the morning commute.
