Image Source: 6abc Philadelphia
The National Weather Service has confirmed a tornado touched down in Burlington County, New Jersey, after a powerful line of storms swept through the Philadelphia region Thursday afternoon. The confirmation marks the second tornado identified in the area following a fast-moving outbreak that damaged homes, toppled trees, scattered debris and produced large amounts of hail.
The National Weather Service announced the Burlington County finding Friday, November 13, 2026. The twister reportedly touched down near Old York Road as severe weather moved across South Jersey and neighboring communities. Additional survey information is expected as meteorologists continue reviewing damage patterns and determining the tornado’s exact path.
National Weather Service Confirms Powerful Burlington County Tornado
Early information indicates the Burlington County tornado was rated EF-1, with winds reaching approximately 100 miles per hour. Damage was reported to homes and other structures in the area, although officials have not released a complete assessment of the storm’s impact.
Residents described a sudden burst of intense wind and flying debris as the storm passed. Cleanup efforts were underway Friday, with property owners beginning to remove branches, inspect roofs and document damage for insurance claims.
The National Weather Service typically evaluates several factors when confirming a tornado, including structural damage, debris patterns, eyewitness accounts and available video. Those surveys help officials estimate the storm’s strength, duration and movement.
Second Tornado Confirmed in the Philadelphia Region
The Burlington County confirmation follows another tornado identified in New Castle County, Delaware. That storm caused significant damage in and around Newark, where powerful winds uprooted trees, damaged vehicles and affected homes.
A hotel sign fell during the Delaware tornado and crushed cars in a parking lot. A medical helicopter also sustained damage when part of its main rotor was torn off. Video from the area showed debris moving rapidly through neighborhoods, including garbage cans flying down a street in Chapman Woods.
The National Weather Service’s findings provide residents and emergency officials with important information about the severity of Thursday’s weather. Confirmed tornado reports can also help communities qualify damage, coordinate inspections and determine whether additional assistance may be needed.
Hail Adds to Storm Damage Across South Jersey
The same storm system brought unusually heavy hail to parts of the Philadelphia region. In Delaware County, hail accumulated so deeply that some communities appeared to be covered in snow. The unusual scene disrupted roads, yards and parking areas as residents watched ice pile up within minutes.
South Jersey communities also reported intense hail. In Collingswood, hail collected on cars and along streets, while residents in Gloucester City shared video showing ice rapidly gathering on the ground. The combination of hail, strong winds and tornado damage created hazardous conditions across several counties.
- Burlington County: An EF-1 tornado with winds near 100 miles per hour damaged homes.
- New Castle County: A confirmed tornado damaged vehicles, trees, homes and a hotel sign.
- South Jersey: Hail accumulated on roads, cars and residential properties.
- Philadelphia region: Residents continued documenting damage and beginning cleanup Friday.
What Residents Should Do After the Storm
Residents in affected areas should avoid downed power lines, unstable trees and damaged structures. Anyone who sees a dangerous condition should contact local emergency officials rather than attempting repairs alone.
Homeowners and renters can photograph damage from a safe location, preserve receipts for emergency repairs and contact their insurance providers. It is also important to monitor local weather alerts in case additional storms develop or weakened structures create new hazards.
The National Weather Service and local agencies may release more details as surveys continue. For now, officials are urging residents to remain cautious while cleanup and safety inspections proceed throughout Burlington County, New Castle County and nearby communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the National Weather Service confirm?
The National Weather Service confirmed that a tornado touched down in Burlington County, New Jersey, after severe storms moved through the Philadelphia region.
How strong was the Burlington County tornado?
Initial information identified the tornado as an EF-1, with estimated winds reaching about 100 miles per hour.
Where was the other tornado confirmed?
A second tornado was confirmed in New Castle County, Delaware, including the Newark area.
What other weather hazards were reported?
Large amounts of hail fell across parts of Delaware County and South Jersey, including Collingswood and Gloucester City.
What should residents do after the storm?
Residents should avoid dangerous debris and downed power lines, document damage safely, contact insurers and follow instructions from local emergency officials.
