Damaging Wind and Lightning Strike in New Jersey, June 1, 1998

A squall line of severe thunderstorms produced wind damage across the northern half of Ocean County. The damage was most extensive in Berkeley and Dover Townships as straight line wind gusts exceeded hurricane force gusts in three swaths across these townships. One fire fighter was injured during clean-up operations. About 15 homes were damaged by fallen trees. Four persons suffered smoke inhalation after downed wires ignited a fire in Building C of the Silver Ridge Apartments in Dover Township. Twenty-four apartments were evacuated and two units were badly damaged leaving the families homeless. A shelter was opened at the Toms River High School.In Berkeley Township, the hardest hit area was within the Holiday City area. One home had its roof lifted and a wall of its garage torn away. Attic fans were knocked off several homes. Emergency personnel responded to 42 calls for assistance. In Dover Township, one of the hardest hit areas was along New Jersey State Route 37 in Toms River. Three homes on Michelle Drive were badly damaged by downed trees. One home had a downed tree in its swimming pool. Several business along State Route 37 had either roof damage and/or windows smashed. Wind damage also occurred along Lakehurst Road east to the Community Medical Center and the Toms River Country Club. The squall line also uprooted trees in Manchester Township, Pine Beach, Ocean Gate and Beachwood Boroughs. Lightning apparently burned a home to the ground within Beachwood Borough. Very strong winds extended to the barrier islands. A wind gust to 63 mph was measured in Seaside Park.