Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Effect for Central Jersey

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Monmouth County, Middlesex County, southeastern Mercer County, southeastern Somerset County, and northeastern Ocean County at approximately 5 p.m. on Friday, June 24. The warning is in effect until 8 p.m. for our area.

At 4:59 p.m. the National Weather Service Doppler Radar picked up "a line of severe thunderstorms capable of producing quarter size hail and damaging winds to 60 mph." 

The storms are moving east at 25 mph along a line from East Brunswick to Hightstown to Mercerville-Hamilton Square, according to the National Weather Service. 

The National Weather Service is advising all people to move indoors and away from windows as this storm is dangerous, and will produce heavy winds, frequent cloud to ground lighting, and large hail. 

Cloud to ground lightning can be fatal, and this storm has already inflicted harm on two people in Middlesex County. 

According to the Breaking News Network, two people in Plainsboro were struck by lightning at 5  p.m. on Friday. Both individuals are reported to be conscious; one has an altered mental state, according to the BNN.

The BNN also reported a home being struck by lightning in Freehold Township around 5:40 p.m. on Friday, which the fire department is investigating.

A police officer was struck by lightning in Oceanport at approximately 6:24 p.m. on Friday and is being transported via police cruiser, according to the BNN.  

"Lightning is one of natures greatest killers," the National Weather Service said. "Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning."