Island Beach State Park, N.J. – A rare waterspout stunned early beachgoers at Island Beach State Park this morning, briefly spinning onto land and creating a dramatic scene at the southern end of the park.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, the waterspout made landfall shortly after sunrise, technically becoming a “landspout” as it crossed over the sand dunes. The phenomenon quickly weakened and dissipated once it lost contact with the water, leaving no reports of injuries or significant damage in Ocean County.
Visitors captured video of the swirling column of air and sand, sharing their shock on social media. Local officials said no park facilities were impacted, and lifeguards monitored the area for any further weather hazards. Landspouts—while generally weaker than tornadoes—can pose a risk to anyone nearby, prompting NWS to remind all beachgoers to stay alert to changing skies, especially in the summer months.
Preparedness tips include moving indoors if a funnel is spotted and remaining clear of open beaches during unusual wind events. While waterspouts are rare along the Jersey Shore, similar events have occurred in recent summers, often fading as quickly as they appear.
This morning’s brief threat has passed, but beach visitors should expect variable weather throughout the week. More updates and any new alerts will be issued by the National Weather Service as needed.
