Schools in Mantua Township, New Jersey, have been closed on Wednesday, September 2, after severe storms left trees and power lines down across the Gloucester County community.
The Mantua Township School District said the closure was necessary because of “significant storm damage affecting surrounding roadways”. Officials will assess conditions during the day before deciding whether schools can reopen on Thursday.
Mantua schools closed after storm damage
The decision followed a night of heavy rain and powerful winds across South Jersey. Fallen trees damaged homes and blocked roads, while utility lines were brought down in several areas.
New Jersey’s 511 travel service reported that Route 45 in Mantua Township was closed in both directions near Berkeley Road and Mantua Road because of a downed tree and wires.
Severe weather warnings were issued for several New Jersey counties during Tuesday evening, including a tornado warning for Burlington County. There were no immediate reports of a tornado touching down.
Crews were continuing to clear debris and make affected roads safe on Wednesday morning as the school district considered when pupils could return.
