NEW JERSEY — A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for all 21 counties in New Jersey until midnight Thursday night, according to the National Weather Service and the Storm Prediction Center.
The watch, designated as Severe Thunderstorm Watch 317, was issued at 7:15 p.m. EDT and covers the entire state. Counties included in the watch are Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren.
Forecasters warn that strong to severe thunderstorms moving through the region could produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, frequent lightning and heavy rainfall. Residents are encouraged to remain weather-aware throughout the evening and be prepared to seek shelter if warnings are issued for their area.
The watch also includes New Jersey’s coastal waters, including the Atlantic Ocean waters from Sandy Hook southward to Cape May and Delaware Bay, where strong storms could create hazardous conditions for boaters.
A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and near the watch area. It does not mean severe weather is occurring, but residents should monitor forecasts and have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.
The watch is scheduled to remain in effect until 12 a.m. Friday unless canceled earlier by the National Weather Service.
