UPDATE 6:00 P.M. from the US National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly : The Tornado Watch is no longer in effect. Please continue to stay weather aware, especially for the potential for damaging winds later tonight with the passage of the cold front.
Earlier Message:
Gloucester Township Police Safety Bulletin: A Tornado Watch is in effect today for the Philadelphia area and parts of South Jersey.
Issued by the National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center, it's valid until 7:00 PM EDT. A WATCH means conditions are favorable for tornadoes, along with damaging winds, large hail, and severe thunderstorms in the region. Be prepared for strong storms this afternoon/evening.
Stay weather-aware: monitor local radar, NWS updates (weather.gov/phi), or apps for any WARNINGS (means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar—take immediate action IF that happens).
Tornado Safety Tips (from NWS and Red Cross guidelines):
✅ Go to your safe spot right away if a WARNING is issued: A basement, storm shelter, or interior room on the lowest floor (like a bathroom or closet) away from windows. Put on helmets or cover your head if possible.
✅ At home: Avoid large open rooms, windows, and exterior walls. Get under something sturdy like a heavy table and cover yourself with blankets or mattresses for protection from debris.
✅ In a vehicle or outside: Do NOT try to outrun a tornado. Leave the vehicle and find low-lying shelter like a ditch; lie flat and cover your head. Avoid bridges/overpasses.
✅ At work/school/public buildings: Follow your building's tornado plan—head to interior hallways or designated shelters, away from glass and exterior doors/windows.
✅ After the storm: Wait for the all-clear. Watch for downed power lines, gas leaks, or structural damage. Wear sturdy shoes/gloves during cleanup to avoid injuries.
If you have an EMERGENCY CALL 911: be patient and stay on the phone if it keeps ringing, the 911 dispatchers may be answering numerous calls for service immediately after a damaging storm and/ or large scale incident.
