TRENTON, N.J. (WCBS 880) — A “large and extremely dangerous” tornado was spotted in New Jersey Thursday evening, prompting the National Weather Service to issue an urgent warning to residents.
“This is a particularly dangerous situation,” the agency alerted. “Take cover now!”
Weather officials note that tornado was spotted over Mercerville-Hamilton Square, near Trenton, at 6:30 p.m. and confirmed it was moving southeast at 25 mph.
As of 7 p.m., the NWS confirmed two tornadic storms were still in the area, one in Mercer County and one near the Northeast Philadelphia/Bucks County line.
Impacted areas include: Trenton, Ewing, Hightstown, Bordentown, Allentown, Edinburg, Crosswicks, White Horse, Windsor, Twin Rivers, Mercerville-Hamilton Square, Lawrenceville, Yardville-Groveville and Princeton Junction.
“You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter,” the NWS said in an alert. “Mobile homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete destruction is possible.”
A tornado watch will remain in effect for parts of New Jersey until 9 p.m., Thursday, according to the agency.
As storms move through the area, the NWS notes that hail between the size of a penny and a ping-pong is possible. Wind gusts up to 60 mph can also be expected.