West Trenton, NJ –  The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management is monitoring the potential for severe weather conditions statewide, along with the National Weather Service.  A Tornado Watch was issued at 1 p.m. today, and is in effect for all but extreme southern New Jersey from now until 8:00 pm tonight.   

New Jersey residents are advised to monitor weather conditions today.    “Watch for deteriorating conditions, pay attention to media outlets or internet sources for severe weather watches and warnings, and take shelter immediately when a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning is issued,” advises State Police Superintendent Colonel Rick Fuentes, Director of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management.  

A severe thunderstorm or tornado “watch” is issued when atmospheric conditions are favorable for the formation of adverse weather conditions.   A “warning” is issued when severe weather conditions are imminent.   Flash flooding can happen quickly; never drive on a road with water covering it and never drive around barriers blocking a flooded road.

For more information on severe storm and tornado safety:

“Turn Around Don’t Drown”  - http://www.weather.gov/os/water/tadd/
Tornado Facts and Safety Tips - http://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/safety.html
Severe Storm Facts and Safety Tips - http://www.weather.gov/om/severeweather/index.shtml
National Weather Service Watches and Warnings - http://www.erh.noaa.gov/er/phi/
NJ Office of Emergency Management – www.ready.nj.gov

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