"Severe Storms Cause Widespread Power Outages and Flooding in New Jersey"

Strong winds with gusts reaching 45 to 50 mph caused thousands of power outages across New Jersey, with over 33,100 homes and businesses affected by 10 p.m. on Wednesday. The outages were concentrated in counties such as Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, and Hunterdon. Additional outages were expected as a coastal storm in the Atlantic strengthened, with wind gusts forecasted to reach 55 to 60 mph. The storm also brought heavy rain, river flooding, and coastal flooding, with a threat of thunderstorms, large hail, and isolated tornadoes in South Jersey. Wind warnings and advisories were in effect across several counties.