WEATHER ALERT: When Might Severe Thunderstorms Hit Howell?

If you are at the beach or are planning outdoor activities Tuesday afternoon or evening in Howell, be prepared to move indoors: a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued by the National Weather Service.

The watch, which covers 13 counties, is in place from now until 7 p.m., the service says.

The watch means showers and thunderstorms are likely and could bring damaging wind gusts and hail, in addition to rain, according to the service. There is a potential in some areas for a few tornadoes, though in New Jersey they are rare.

The counties covered under the watch are Monmouth, Ocean, Atlantic, Gloucester. Burlington, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon, Morris, Warren, Sussex and Camden.

In Howell, showers and thunderstorms are likely, mainly after 5 p.m. That may cool things down slightly after the temperature hits a high of 94 degrees. Some storms could be severe, with damaging winds. Southwest wind around 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent, the service says.

(Photo credit: Karen Wall)