On March 16, 2026, a tornado warning was issued for New Jersey’s Monmouth and Ocean counties, coinciding with severe weather that resulted in widespread damage and power outages. Peak wind gusts reached 72 mph at John F. Kennedy International Airport, while Newark recorded gusts of 71 mph.
The National Weather Service had issued a tornado watch for most of New Jersey, effective until 7 p.m. that day. This watch is part of a pattern, as tornadoes in New Jersey are not uncommon, occurring a couple of times each year.
In addition to the tornado warnings, the storms caused significant disruptions. Over 12,459 customers were reported without power in New Jersey’s JCP&L, while PSEG Long Island reported 14,466 customers affected. Other utilities, including PSE&G, Orange & Rockland, and Con Edison, also experienced outages affecting thousands.
As the severe weather unfolded, reports of damage began to emerge. A tree fell and crushed a car in the Bronx, and in South Plainfield, New Jersey, a tree toppled onto a house, highlighting the destructive impact of the storms.
The most recent tornado registered by the National Weather Service before this event occurred on May 16, 2025, near Buena Vista Township in Atlantic County. This history of tornado activity underscores the importance of preparedness in the region.
As residents begin to assess the damage and restore power, observers are monitoring the situation closely. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage and any potential injuries resulting from the storms.