Confirmed EF1 Tornado: The NWS confirmed a tornado touched down in the Town of Sanford at 6:12 p.m. on July 18, traveling approximately **15.7 miles** through Deposit, Hale Eddy, and Hancock, briefly touching the Pennsylvania border in Wayne County.
Wind Speeds & Damage: The tornado produced winds of **95 mph (EF1)** along with an intense **105 mph microburst**. An EF1 tornado typically causes slight to moderate damage with speeds between 85–110 mph.
Ninth Tornado of the Year: This event brings New York State's 2026 tornado count to **nine**, highlighting an unusually active season.
Ongoing Warnings: As of July 21, tornado watches are in effect for **15+ counties** in New York and New Jersey, including Morris, Warren, Ocean, Middlesex, Ulster, Dutchess, Sullivan, Bronx, Westchester, Bergen, and others through 9:00 p.m. EDT.
Flash Flood Threats: Multiple flash flood warnings are active across Passaic, Hudson, Essex, Bergen, Morris, Somerset, Ulster, Dutchess, Sullivan, Bronx, and Westchester counties.
Why This Matters: Residents across the Tri-State area face dual threats of tornadoes and flash flooding within the same storm system. Understanding the difference between watches and warnings, and knowing safety protocols, can save lives.
On Saturday, July 18, the severe weather outbreak began when an EF1 tornado touched down in the Town of Sanford (Broome County) at 6:12 p.m. The tornado carved a 15.7-mile path through Deposit and Hale Eddy, briefly crossing into Pennsylvania before touching down in Hancock at 6:31 p.m. The NWS inspection confirmed damage consistent with an EF1 tornado (95 mph) accompanied by a microburst reaching 105 mph.
Additional downbursts were reported, including an estimated 70–80 mph microburst in Marathon, with damaging winds sweeping through northern Broome County and Chenango County.
By Tuesday, July 21, forecasters warned that similar severe weather conditions would fire again. The NWS issued:
Tornado Watches: (until 9:00 p.m. EDT) covering multiple counties in NY and NJ
Flash Flood Warnings: across urban and suburban areas including Bronx, Westchester, Bergen, Passaic, Essex, and Hudson counties
River Flood Warnings: for Bergen County lasting into Wednesday
This weather pattern is characteristic of mid-summer severe outbreaks in the Northeast, where warm, humid air collides with cold fronts, producing supercell thunderstorms capable of spawning tornadoes. Data compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data shows that New York typically sees fewer than 10 tornadoes annually, making this year's count of nine already by late July statistically significant.
Know the 30/30 Rule: If you see lightning or hear thunder within 30 seconds, go indoors. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before going back outside.
Identify Safe Spaces: Basements, interior rooms on the lowest floor, and storm shelters offer the best protection during tornado warnings.
Stay Informed: Monitor NWS alerts and local news. Keep devices charged and weather radios accessible.
Flood Safety: Never drive through flooded roads. Turn around, don't drown.
What is the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning?
A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornado development — stay alert. A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar — take immediate shelter.
How common are tornadoes in New York and New Jersey?
While less common than in the Midwest, the Northeast averages 9–10 tornadoes per year across New York. This year has already reached nine by late July, making it an above-average season.
What should I do during a flash flood warning?
Move to higher ground immediately. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down, and 12 inches can sweep away a vehicle.
How long does an EF1 tornado last typically?
EF1 tornadoes typically last a few minutes to 15–20 minutes on the ground, though the confirmed one on July 18 traveled over 15 miles in about 19 minutes.
Stay Weather-Aware: With severe storms continuing into Tuesday, July 21, keep up to date with NWS alerts and local news broadcasts.
Know Your County: This severe weather event affects **over 20 counties** across NY and NJ. Check if your area is under a watch or warning.
Prepare Emergency Kits: Have flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, bottled water, and non-perishable food ready in case of power outages — thousands were left without power after the weekend storms.
Who This Affects Most: Residents in **Broome, Delaware, Sullivan, Morris, Ulster, Dutchess, Bronx, Westchester, Bergen, Essex, Passaic, and Hudson counties** are at highest risk for both tornadoes and flash flooding.
Don't Wait — Act: When a warning is issued, every second counts. Move to your safe location immediately.
Have you experienced severe weather in your area? Share your safety tips and experiences in the comments below — your insights could help others prepare!
Do you think severe weather patterns are becoming more frequent in the Northeast? Let us know!
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