News Summary
An EF-0 tornado struck Collings Lakes, New Jersey, with peak winds of 65-75 mph, causing minimal damage and no reported injuries. Residents faced chaos as cleanup efforts began shortly after the storm subsided, with trees downed and debris littering the streets. While the tornado left a trail of fear among residents, community members rallied to help each other in recovery efforts. Despite previous severe weather warnings, the community is now looking forward to warmer temperatures and a return to normalcy in the coming days.
Collings Lakes, New Jersey Experiences EF-0 Tornado; Minimal Damage Reported
A tornado classified as EF-0 struck Collings Lakes, New Jersey, on Friday, May 16, 2025, as confirmed by the National Weather Service (NWS). The tornado, characterized by peak winds estimated at 65 to 75 mph, touched down at 12:52 PM. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries associated with the storm, according to the NWS storm survey.
The path of the tornado measured approximately 0.5 miles in length and 25 yards in width. Despite its minimal classification, residents faced chaotic conditions during its brief duration. Cleanup efforts commenced shortly after the tornado passed, with residents utilizing chainsaws to remove downed trees and debris that blocked roads and walkways.
Impact and Cleanup Efforts Begin
Several residents experienced significant fear during the storm, leading to dramatic moments, including a homeowner who sought shelter in her bathroom with her pets as a tree fell through her roof, narrowly missing her by just three feet. This particular incident garnered attention within the community, with volunteers stepping in to assist not only in cleanup but also in locating the woman’s missing cats.
Areas particularly affected by the tornado included Malaga Road, where large branches were felled, and metal roof sheets were torn off buildings. Further damage was reported near the intersection of Cains Mill Road and Colton Lane, where trees were uprooted and fell onto houses. The sudden and severe conditions prompted many residents to take immediate action to protect their homes and loved ones.
Severe Weather Conditions
Prior to the tornado, wind gusts from the preceding severe thunderstorms had reached up to 60 mph, accompanied by quarter-sized hail. Additionally, flood warnings were issued in Collings Lakes and surrounding areas, leading to several roads being submerged and requiring multiple water rescues. As of 1:30 PM, all tornado warnings across South Jersey had expired or been canceled, bringing some relief to the nervous community.
Lingering showers were anticipated in the Philadelphia region, despite the storm system moving out of the area. The severe thunderstorm watch that had been issued for various counties, including Philadelphia, was also lifted following the tornado warnings.
Looking Ahead
Residents are now looking towards the upcoming days, with meteorological forecasts predicting a shift to warmer temperatures. Highs are expected to reach the mid to upper 80s on Saturday, while a return to more typical weather patterns is anticipated for the following week. However, meteorologists continue to monitor conditions, keeping an eye out for potential warnings related to strong or severe storms that could arise on Saturday evening.
As Collings Lakes moves forward from this weather event, the community remains resilient, rallying together to aid each other in recovery efforts and preparing for any future weather-related challenges that may arise.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Philadelphia Faces Severe Weather and Community Challenges
Tornado Touches Down in Collings Lakes, NJ
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Tornado in New Jersey
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- NBC Philadelphia: Collings Lake Tornado
- Google Search: Tornado Collings Lakes
- ABC 6: Tornado Warnings in South Jersey
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
- WPG Talk Radio: Possible Tornado Damage
- Google Scholar: Tornado Storm Damage
- NJ.com: Possible Tornado Report
- Google News: New Jersey Tornado
