A powerful line of storms swept across New Jersey this weekend, disrupting travel, leaving thousands without power, and sparking severe weather alerts. On Saturday, residents were placed under a severe thunderstorm watch with warnings of damaging winds, flash flooding, and even the possibility of an isolated tornado. The storm’s fast-moving system overturned cars, downed trees, and created hazardous road conditions, particularly in central and northern parts of the state. By Sunday, the severe weather gave way to a much different picture: unseasonably chilly, cloudy skies and lingering showers, with temperatures running 10–15 degrees below what is typical for early September.
While the storm passed, its impacts are still being felt. Crews remain at work restoring power to neighborhoods, and local officials are urging drivers to remain cautious as clean-up continues. Weather updates and breaking statewide developments can always be followed through Explore New Jersey News.
Lottery: Powerball Jackpot Climbs, but New Jersey Sees Big Wins
New Jersey residents continue to chase lottery fortune as the Powerball jackpot grows. Saturday night’s drawing for a record $1.8 billion jackpot produced no grand prize winner, ensuring the top prize will roll over once again. However, New Jersey still saw success at the ticket counter. Two tickets purchased in the state matched enough numbers to earn $1 million each, a windfall for those lucky players even as the billion-dollar dream continues. Lines are expected to remain long at convenience stores and lottery retailers across the state as the next drawing approaches.
Community and Local Events
In Newark, the city wrapped up its annual “24 Hrs. of Peace” festival, an event that uses hip-hop culture to advocate for non-violence and community unity. With performances, discussions, and art installations, the event has become a staple in the city’s cultural calendar, continuing to draw support from residents and civic leaders.
Across the river in Jersey City, fans of K-pop were left disappointed after a planned concert by global star Kang Daniel was canceled. Organizers cited scheduling issues, leaving many ticket-holders frustrated and hoping for a rescheduled appearance.
Meanwhile, Hopewell Valley came together this weekend for a moving 9/11 remembrance ceremony, marking the 24th anniversary of the attacks. Residents gathered to honor the victims, survivors, and first responders, with a significant addition this year: a piece of steel from the World Trade Center will be moved to Borough Hall on September 11 to serve as a permanent memorial.
Crime and Public Safety
Public safety stories also made headlines. In Jersey City, an armed man who fired shots at police vehicles was fatally shot during a confrontation with officers on Friday. The incident is now under review by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
Elsewhere in Jackson Township, tragedy struck as a man was charged with fatally shooting his girlfriend in a case that has shaken the local community. In Spotswood, heavy rain and flooding from Saturday’s storm caused a car to overturn. Thankfully, those inside were able to escape without life-threatening injuries. And in Hunterdon County, disturbing news emerged as a school janitor was arrested and charged with possessing child sexual abuse material, sparking outrage among parents and residents.
Local Communities and Developments
Paulsboro honored one of its most iconic sports figures this weekend as the local football stadium was officially dedicated to longtime coach Glenn Howard. The dedication was followed by a spirited Red Raiders victory, a fitting tribute to Howard’s enduring impact on the program.
Looking ahead, Dennis Township is preparing for a major online auction scheduled for September 16–18, when 100 properties will be available for bidding. The auction is expected to draw investors and buyers from across the region.
Sports Across New Jersey
New Jersey sports fans had plenty to cheer for and follow this weekend. The New Jersey Institute of Technology men’s soccer team secured its first win of the season with a 1-0 triumph over Rider, giving the program momentum heading into the fall schedule. The Monmouth Hawks women’s soccer team, meanwhile, faces off against the St. John’s Red Storm this afternoon, a matchup expected to test their early-season form.
On the national stage, New Jersey native Amanda Anisimova battled in the US Open women’s final but fell short against Aryna Sabalenka. Anisimova’s strong run to the final, however, underscored her growing status in the tennis world and brought pride to her home state.
The NFL season also kicks off today for both the New York Jets and New York Giants, with fans across New Jersey tuning in to see how the teams will set the tone for their campaigns.
Baseball fans are mourning the loss of Davey Johnson, the former manager who led the New York Mets to their unforgettable 1986 World Series title. Johnson, a key figure in baseball history and a name deeply respected in the region, has died at the age of 82.
For the latest news, weather alerts, community updates, and sports headlines across the Garden State, readers can stay connected at Explore New Jersey News
