Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Multiple deaths reported in New Jersey and Texas after strong thunderstorms

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Severe Weather Hits the US: Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms Cause Devastation

Residents in parts of the US, as far-flung as New Jersey and Texas, were contending with the devastating effects of heavy rain and thunderstorms that swept through their communities on Thursday night.

New Jersey: Storms Cause Deaths and Destruction

The storms are being blamed for at least three deaths in central New Jersey, including two men in Plainfield who died after a tree fell onto a vehicle they were traveling in during the height of the storm, according to a city Facebook post.

The men were ages 79 and 25, officials said. They were not immediately publicly identified.

“Our hearts are heavy today,” Mayor Adrian O. Mapp said in a statement. “This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of life.”

Community Response and Recovery

The city canceled its planned July Fourth parade, concert, and fireworks show. Mapp said the “devastating” storms had left “deep scars and widespread damage” in the community of more than 54,000 people and it was a time to “regroup and focus all of our energy on recovery.”

Continuing power outages and downed trees were reported on Friday throughout southern New England, where some communities received large amounts of hail. There were reports of cars skidding off the road in northeastern Connecticut.

Texas: Flash Flooding Causes Fatalities

In Texas, as much as 10 inches of heavy rain over just a few hours overnight in central Kerr County caused flash flooding of the Guadalupe River. The Kerr County sheriff’s office confirmed fatalities on social media but did not provide additional details.

The Guadalupe’s river gauge at the unincorporated community of Hunt, where the river forks, recorded a 22-foot rise in just about two hours, according to Bob Fogarty, meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Austin/San Antonio office. Fogarty said the gauge failed after recording a level of 29 and a half feet.

“We think the river’s higher than that,” Fogarty said. “The gauge is completely underwater.”

Flood Warning and Rescue Efforts

A flood watch issued on Thursday afternoon estimated isolated amounts up to seven inches. That shifted to a flood warning for at least 30,000 people overnight.

The riverfront communities include several camps, wildlife habitats, and campgrounds. Texas Game Wardens, part of the state parks and wildlife agency, said on Facebook that search and rescue teams are conducting rescues throughout the region and sending more boats to help.

“This is the kind of thing that will catch you unaware,” Fogarty said. “The water’s moving so fast, you’re not going to recognize how bad it is until it’s on top of you.”

Impact and Aftermath

The severe weather has caused significant damage and disruption to communities in New Jersey and Texas. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but it is clear that the storms have had a devastating impact on residents and infrastructure.

The community is coming together to support those affected, with many organizations and individuals offering assistance and aid. The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but with the support of the community, it is possible to rebuild and recover.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the severe weather that hit the US on Thursday night has caused significant damage and loss of life. The storms have had a devastating impact on communities in New Jersey and Texas, and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

It is essential to be prepared for severe weather and to take necessary precautions to stay safe. By staying informed and working together, we can reduce the risk of injury and damage and support those affected by the storms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What caused the severe weather in New Jersey and Texas?

A: The severe weather was caused by heavy rain and thunderstorms that swept through the regions on Thursday night.

Q: How many people were killed in the storms?

A: At least three people were killed in central New Jersey, and there were also fatalities reported in Texas.

Q: What is being done to support those affected by the storms?

A: Many organizations and individuals are offering assistance and aid to those affected by the storms, including search and rescue teams, food and shelter, and emotional support.

Q: How can I stay safe during severe weather?

A: To stay safe during severe weather, it is essential to stay informed, follow evacuation orders, and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property.

Q: What is the outlook for recovery in the affected areas?

A: The road to recovery will be long and challenging, but with the support of the community, it is possible to rebuild and recover. It is essential to stay positive and work together to support those affected by the storms.

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