WEST TRENTON, N.J. – The New Jersey Office of Emergency Management is monitoring severe weather conditions statewide, in conjunction with the National Weather Service and its County Office of Emergency Management partners.

New Jersey residents are also advised to monitor weather conditions today. “Watch for deteriorating conditions, pay attention to media outlets or internet sources for severe weather watches and warnings, and take shelter immediately when a tornado or severe thunderstorm warning is issued,” advises State Police Superintendent Colonel Rick Fuentes, Director of the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management.

A severe thunderstorm or tornado “watch” is issued when atmospheric conditions are favorable for the formation of adverse weather conditions. A "warning" is issued when severe weather conditions are imminent. Flash flooding can happen quickly; never drive on a road with water covering it and never drive around barriers blocking a flooded road.

For more information on severe storm and tornado safety:

"Turn Around Don’t Drown" - http://www.weather.gov/os/water/tadd/
Tornado Facts and Safety Tips - http://www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/safety.html
Severe Storm Facts and Safety Tips - http://www.weather.gov/om/severeweather/index.shtml
National Weather Service Watches and Warnings - http://www.erh.noaa.gov/er/phi/
NJ Office of Emergency Management – www.ready.nj.gov