NEW JERSEY — New Jersey experienced an extraordinary stretch of November weather as powerful thunderstorms, torrential rain, large hail, possible tornadoes and the season’s first snowflakes swept across the state in a matter of hours.

The dramatic weather shift began Thursday, November 12, when a powerful storm system moved through the region, triggering severe thunderstorm and tornado warnings across portions of New Jersey.

Some communities experienced intense downpours, damaging winds and hailstones approaching golf-ball size. Parts of Burlington County also reported significant storm damage, prompting National Weather Service investigators to examine whether a tornado had touched down.

Severe storms bring dangerous conditions

The strongest storms developed Thursday afternoon as warm, moisture-filled air near the surface collided with colder air higher in the atmosphere.

The unstable conditions helped fuel powerful thunderstorms capable of producing rotating storm systems, large hail and damaging winds.

In Burlington County, reports of collapsed structures in the Chesterfield area raised concerns about possible tornado damage. Meteorologists also tracked areas of rotation across parts of southern and central New Jersey.

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall caused localized flooding, creating hazardous driving conditions and disrupting travel.

From thunderstorms to winter-like conditions

Just as residents began recovering from Thursday’s storms, another dramatic weather change arrived Friday.

Colder air swept into New Jersey, bringing temperatures down into the 40s and making conditions feel even colder with gusty winds.

Rain continued across much of the state, while higher elevations in North Jersey faced the possibility of wet snow and scattered snowflakes.

Although significant accumulation was not expected across most communities, the sudden transition from thunderstorms and hail to potential snow offered a striking reminder of how unpredictable November weather can be.

A dramatic reminder of New Jersey’s unpredictable weather

The two-day weather event highlighted the state’s vulnerability to rapidly changing conditions during the fall season.

From severe thunderstorms and potential tornado damage to cold rain and early-season snow, New Jersey experienced several different weather threats in an unusually short period.

Forecasters expected conditions to gradually improve heading into the weekend, with drier weather returning but much colder temperatures remaining in place. Check out the latest local forecast.

For residents, the message was clear: November may bring beautiful fall scenery, but winter weather can arrive much sooner than expected.