A tornado warning has been issued as powerful thunderstorms move across the Northeast, placing more than 20 million people at risk of severe weather. Forecasters are alerting residents to the possibility of torrential rain, wind gusts up to 60 mph, and isolated tornadoes.
Parts of New Jersey are currently under a tornado warning, with severe thunderstorm warnings issued for central and northern areas of the state. Meteorologists anticipate that repeated heavy rainfall could lead to life-threatening flash flooding, particularly in regions already saturated from recent storms.
The New York City metropolitan area is under a Flood Watch through Wednesday, with expected rainfall totals ranging from two to five inches, and some isolated locations potentially receiving over six inches. The highest risk for flash flooding is identified from central New Jersey into the Philadelphia metropolitan area, where forecasters have designated the threat level as 'high risk'.
Northern Pennsylvania, the Hudson Valley, and much of Massachusetts are expected to experience the most significant rainfall, with potential totals of four to eight inches in some communities.
The severe weather has already caused disruptions, including the postponement of the New York Mets game against the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday evening due to the approaching storms. Officials are advising residents to stay informed about weather alerts and seek shelter immediately if warnings are issued, emphasizing that conditions can change rapidly.
Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey has urged residents to remain vigilant and monitor emergency alerts. She stated on X that heavy rain, thunderstorms, potential flash flooding, high winds, and tornadoes are anticipated across the state, advising people to head indoors if a storm approaches.
A tornado warning was issued for Sussex and Warren counties in New Jersey until 2:15 p.m., followed by a severe thunderstorm warning for the same area until 3 p.m. Flash Flood Warnings were also issued Tuesday afternoon for parts of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, as thunderstorms brought torrential rain. Rainfall rates were reported to reach up to three inches per hour, leading to dangerous flooding on roads, highways, and in low-lying areas. Several locations had already received between one and four inches of rain, with more expected throughout the evening. Officials are cautioning motorists to avoid flooded roads, noting that most flash flood fatalities occur within vehicles.