Community Corner

Tornado Watch Issued for Region

Strong winds and hail possible through 8 p.m.

A tornado watch has been issued for 12 New Jersey counties, including Middlesex, through tonight at 8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

Strong thunderstorms could develop during the late afternoon and evening hours, producing damaging wind gusts, large hail and a possible tornado, the NWS said.

The NWS said storms could bring winds of up to 70 m.p.h. with hail up to 2 inches in diameter for some areas.  The storm could also bring dangerous lightning strikes, according to the NWS.

Find out what's happening in South Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area," the NWS said.  "Persons in these areas should be on the lookout threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings."

According to the National Weather Service, a hot and very humid air mass is covering the region, resulting on conditions that are favorable for thunderstorms, and some are already developing over portions of Central and Northeast Pennsylvania. The storms are expected to increase in coverage and intensity as they move into the Poconos and Southeast Pennsylvania and eventually into New Jersey. Some of these storms will be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail and possibly a tornado as they develop and intensify.

Find out what's happening in South Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are expected today, mainly after 5 p.m. Some storms could be severe, with large hail and damaging winds. Forecasts call for the day to be partly sunny, with a high near 92 and southwest winds between 11 and 13 mph. There is a 60 percent chance of precipitation.

Tonight, the service says there is a chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7 p.m. Some of the storms could be severe.

The NWS provided the following table for the likelihood of various conditions throughout the tornado watch area:

Hazard Tornadoes EF2+ Tornadoes* Severe Wind 65 kt+ Wind Severe Hail 2"+ Hail Likelihood Moderate Low Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate

* — An EF2 tornado is considered severe.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here