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.