Tornado Touches Down in Collings Lakes, NJ

News Summary

An EF-0 tornado struck Collings Lakes, New Jersey, with winds reaching 75 mph on May 16. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Residents began assessing damage after the storm, which brought severe thunderstorms, significant rainfall, and flood warnings. Local agencies are on alert as more weather events are anticipated.

Collings Lakes, NJ – An EF-0 tornado confirmed by the National Weather Service (NWS) touched down in Collings Lakes, New Jersey, on Friday, May 16, 2025, at approximately 12:52 p.m. This severe weather event unveiled estimated wind speeds of 65 to 75 mph and traveled a path length of half a mile. Fortunately, the storm did not result in any reported injuries, according to the NWS storm survey.

Residents in Atlantic County began assessing storm damage shortly after the tornado passed through. Reports indicated significant wind gusts reaching 60 mph and hail comparable to the size of a quarter. Following the tornado, tornado warnings issued for five counties—Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, and Gloucester—were either expired or canceled by 1:30 p.m.

Prior to the tornado’s touchdown, severe thunderstorms had wreaked havoc across the region. A storm capable of producing a tornado was spotted near Bridgeton at 12:42 p.m., moving southeast at 30 mph with radar indicating rotation. These storms were part of a larger system that affected the greater Philadelphia area on that day.

Despite the severity of the storms, forecasts showed lingering showers were expected throughout the day. Initial reports indicated that a severe thunderstorm watch had been in effect for several counties; however, this was later lifted. Accumulated rainfall for the week ranged significantly, with totals reaching between 2 and 3 inches in various areas.

In addition to the tornado, flood warnings remained active due to runoff from heavy rainfall. Multiple water rescues were reported as floodwaters rose in low-lying areas. Significant debris, including large tree branches, was noted, along with damage to buildings in the vicinity of the tornado’s path.

The weather on May 16 was characterized by a forecast high of 82 degrees and a low of 63. The storm’s primary risk has been earlier noted by forecasters to be present between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., leading to heightened awareness among residents in the affected areas.

Looking ahead, weather predictions for Saturday anticipated warm conditions with highs in the mid-80s and the possibility of morning thunderstorms. In contrast, Sunday was forecasted to be sunny with temperatures reaching the mid-70s.

It is also important to note that while recent rainfall has alleviated some immediate concerns, ongoing drought conditions persist in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Dry months leading up to these storms have contributed to the continued drought designation despite the temporary relief brought on by inclement weather.

As the community begins to recover from the May 16 storms, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential additional weather incidents as conditions evolve. The collaboration of local agencies and the monitoring by the National Weather Service will be essential in ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected populations during this unpredictable weather season.

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Additional Resources

• CBS News: Severe Storms in Philadelphia
• Wikipedia: Tornado
• NBC Philadelphia: Severe Storms in Philadelphia
• Google Search: Severe Weather Philadelphia
• FOX29: Severe Thunderstorm Watch
• Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorms
• Inquirer: Philadelphia Weather Forecast
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
• NBC Philadelphia: Tracking Severe Storms