Tornado In Barnegat, Surflight Theatre Outdoor Theatre Destroyed

BARNEGAT, NJ — As Tropical Storm Isaias hit the area, it brought a tornado to Barnegat and significant damage.

The National Weather Service spotted a tornado over Barnegat at 10:59 a.m. Tuesday. The area's tornado warning lasted until 11:30 a.m.

"TAKE COVER NOW!" the NWS said. "Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris."

The storm destroyed Surflight Theatre's outdoor venue. Tuesday night was set for the opening of "Mamma Mia," but they hope to get back up and running soon.

A GoFundMe is raising money for the nonprofit theater as they attempt to rebuild. The theater company held outdoor shows so they could perform during the coronavirus pandemic.

New York Metro Weather reporter John Homenuk says he witnessed a tornado at about 11 a.m. on Route 72 East near Long Beach Island.

Officials recorded wind gusts as high as 69 mph in Tuckerton. The Rutgers NJ Weather Network reported a gust of 64 mph in Harvey Cedars.

The storm took down wires in the roadway around 79th Street in Harvey Cedars, police said. They are diverting traffic, police said at about 11:45 a.m. Tuesday.

This is a developing story. Patch will update as more information comes.