🚨 TORNADO WATCH ISSUED 🚨 The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued a Tornado Watch for our area, including New Jersey, until 9:00 PM this evening

⚠️ Hazards include:
🌪️ A few tornadoes possible
💨 Widespread damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph
🧊 Isolated large hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter
⛈️ Dangerous thunderstorms capable of producing rapidly changing weather conditions

A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms to develop. It does NOT mean a tornado has been confirmed, but you should be prepared to act quickly if a warning is issued.

What You Should Do Now:

✅ Stay weather aware and monitor trusted weather sources.
✅ Make sure your cell phone has Wireless Emergency Alerts enabled.
✅ Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, grills, umbrellas, and other loose items.
✅ Charge your cell phones and have flashlights available in case of power outages.
✅ Avoid unnecessary travel during severe storms.

If a Tornado Warning Is Issued or You See a Tornado:

🏠 Go immediately to the lowest level of a sturdy building, preferably a basement.
🚪 If there is no basement, move to a small interior room, hallway, or bathroom on the lowest floor.
🪟 Stay away from windows, doors, and exterior walls.
🏢 If you are in a mobile home or manufactured home, leave immediately and seek shelter in a sturdy building.
🚗 If you are driving, do not try to outrun a tornado. If possible, seek shelter in a substantial building. Avoid taking shelter under highway overpasses.

Remember:
Watch = Be Prepared
Warning = Take Action

The officers and members of Laureldale Fire/Rescue will continue to monitor conditions and respond as needed. Please stay alert, have a plan, and keep your family safe this afternoon and evening.

📞 Call 911 for emergencies only.