What impact has the severe weather had on New Jersey? On March 17, 2026, the state experienced powerful storms that resulted in widespread disruptions, including significant power outages affecting approximately 16,000 customers.
Wind gusts reached as high as 71 mph at Newark Airport, while nearby New York City recorded peak gusts of 72 mph at John F. Kennedy International Airport. These extreme conditions prompted a tornado warning in Monmouth and Ocean counties, which was lifted shortly after midnight.
As of noon on March 17, temperatures in New Jersey struggled to reach past 40 degrees, with forecasts indicating that highs on March 18 would only reach the upper 30s. However, a warming trend is expected, with temperatures projected to reach the lower to mid-50s by March 20, marking the first day of Spring.
In addition to power outages, NJ Transit reported that some rail lines were suspended due to downed trees on overhead wires, further complicating travel for commuters. Reports indicated that at one point, nearly 38,000 power outages were recorded across the state.
“Weather in a word for your St. Patrick’s Day: Blustery,” noted meteorologists, emphasizing the challenging conditions faced by residents. The aftermath of the storms has left many dealing with the consequences of fallen trees and damaged property.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage caused by the storms, but there have been numerous reports of trees falling, including an incident where a tree crushed a car in the Bronx.
As the weather begins to calm, with expectations of clearer skies, residents are left to assess the impact of the severe weather and the ongoing recovery efforts.
With the transition into spring, the community is hopeful for more stable weather patterns in the coming weeks.
