Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Essex, NJ, NJ — Storm Damage Roof Inspection Guide

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for Essex, NJ, New Jersey by the National Weather Service. Homeowners in the affected area should assess their roofs for hail damage, wind damage, or other storm-related issues as soon as it is safe to do so.

Storm Details

• Event: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
• Severity: Severe
• Effective: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
• Expires: May 20, 2026, 11:00 PM
• Area: Essex, NJ, New Jersey

Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued May 20 at 6:07PM EDT until May 20 at 7:00PM EDT by NWS Upton NY

Official NWS Statement

SVROKX

The National Weather Service in Upton NY has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
Hudson County in northeastern New Jersey...
Union County in northeastern New Jersey...
Southern Essex County in northeastern New Jersey...
Richmond County in southeastern New York...
Kings County in southeastern New York...
New York (Manhattan) County in southeastern New York...

* Until 700 PM EDT.

* At 607 PM EDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line
extending from near Peapack And Gladstone to Somerset to near
Plainsboro Center, movin…

Safety Instructions

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.

Roof Damage After a Storm — What to Look For

• Dents or bruising on shingles, gutters, and flashing
• Missing, cracked, or lifted shingles
• Granule loss (dark streaks in downspouts or gutters)
• Dented or damaged skylights, vents, and AC units
• Interior water stains on ceilings or walls

Even minor hail damage can compromise your roof's waterproofing. A licensed roofer can identify hidden damage before it leads to leaks or mold.

Will Your Insurance Cover Storm Roof Damage?

Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover roof damage from hail and wind storms. You typically have 1–2 years to file a claim after the storm date (check your policy). A licensed roofing contractor can provide a free inspection and help document the damage for your claim.

For homeowners in Essex, NJ: StormLead connects you with licensed, local roofing contractors who specialize in storm damage repair. Request a free inspection at stormlead.co →