NJ Governor Phil Murphy Assesses Storm Damage and Fatalities in Berkeley Heights

Storm Impact and Damage Assessment

• 🚨 Governor Phil Murphy surveyed storm damage in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey, following a severe weather event.
• 💔 Sadly, there were two confirmed fatalities in Plainfield due to a vehicle being swept away.
• ⚠️ While there were no other reported fatalities statewide, authorities are still assessing damage in counties like Union and Somerset.

Storm Intensity and Frequency

• 🌧️ The storm brought intense rainfall, with reports of 6 inches in under two and a half hours across two waves, overwhelming drainage systems.
• 📈 Governor Murphy noted an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, attributing it to current weather patterns.
• 🏠 A home explosion occurred in North Plainfield, the cause of which is under investigation; thankfully, no one was injured.

Public Safety and Warnings

• ⚠️ Murphy emphasized the dangers of floodwaters, stating that water has caused more fatalities during his tenure as governor than any other weather event.
• 🚗 He cautioned against underestimating water's power, highlighting that vehicles can be swept away and urging residents to stay alert.
• 💧 The governor stressed the importance of heeding warnings, as extreme weather events are becoming more common.

Federal Aid and Future Outlook

• 🤝 The White House has been contacted to assess potential federal assistance for the affected areas.
• 📉 The state will work with local and county officials to determine if damage levels meet federal thresholds for aid, including potential SBA relief for small businesses.
• 🌦️ While the immediate forecast suggests less intense storms for the coming days, residents are advised to remain vigilant due to ongoing weather patterns.