By: Richard L. Smith
A powerful line of storms tore through Central New Jersey Thursday evening, bringing torrential rain, destructive winds, and widespread damage.
One woman was killed in North Plainfield when a tree collapsed onto her vehicle during the height of the storm.
The woman, 33, had reportedly pulled over on Greenbrook Road as the storm intensified.
According to North Plainfield Mayor Lawrence La Ronde, the impact of the fallen tree, along with downed power lines, proved fatal.
In Plainfield, Mayor Mapp confirmed that two people were killed during the storm. A tree fell on a car killing a 25-year-old man and a 79-year-old man
Emergency crews arrived quickly, but she could not be saved. Her identity has not yet been released publicly.
The National Weather Service in Mount Holly issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of Somerset, Union, and Middlesex counties, including North and South Plainfield and Carteret, citing wind gusts of up to 80 mph.
While some residents described the event as resembling a tornado, officials have not yet confirmed whether one touched down.
Fallen trees damaged homes across the region. In Plainfield, a large tree crashed into a house at the intersection of Kensington and Prospect Avenues.
Another tree fell on a residence along Westfield Avenue, prompting emergency responders to assist trapped occupants.
Power outages were reported across the area, and utility crews continued working into the night.
Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency for the hardest-hit counties and said in a statement,
“We are in close touch with local mayors and emergency response officials to provide support. If you’re in the area, please stay inside and avoid any downed trees, power lines, or burning transformers.”
According to ABC7NY, the storm caused significant damage in Bound Brook and Dunellen as well, where residents reported hail, uprooted trees, and property destruction.
In some areas, residents reported that the winds hit so suddenly that they had no time to take cover.
While the worst of the storm has passed, forecasters are urging continued caution and are monitoring the event to determine whether a tornado touched down.
The National Weather Service is expected to conduct a formal damage survey in the coming days.