Thousands Without Power As Severe Storms Sock New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — Hazy, hot and humid conditions across New Jersey on Wednesday gave way to severe thunderstorms that knocked out power to thousands across the state.

The storms containing heavy rains, strong winds and hail moved through during the late afternoon, knocking down trees and power lines. Jersey Central Power and Light reported roughly 10,500 customers had no power Wednesday night, while about 9,600 PSE&G customers were without service. However, roughly half of PSE&G's outages were caused by a traffic accident.

The strong storms also snapped the state's most recent heat wave, which was welcome relief for weather-weary residents.

The National Weather Service said record temperatures were set Wednesday in Newark, which hit 104 degrees, and in Atlantic City, which reached 101 degrees. Trenton tied its record of 100 degrees.

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