Residents in Delaware's capital and on Long Island, New York, are assessing damage after tornadoes struck during sudden storms on Friday. The storms also brought heavy rains and flash flooding across the north-eastern US, leading to dozens of people being stranded in their vehicles.
On Long Island, a tornado touched down at the Sun & Surf Beach Club in Atlantic Beach, resulting in one minor injury and significant damage to at least 50 beach cabanas. The club, which was hosting a party with 200 to 300 people, had begun evacuating members before the tornado hit. Both the Sun & Surf and Silver Point clubs will remain closed as damage is evaluated.
In Dover, Delaware, a tornado was reported by a trained spotter during Thursday evening's storms. Social media images and videos show a motel roof being blown off and damage to other buildings. Dover's mayor, Robin Christiansen, lifted a state of emergency on Friday morning, though police advised residents to expect delays due to ongoing cleanup and repairs.
Flash flooding also affected other areas. In Nassau county, Long Island, first responders rescued people trapped in their vehicles. Part of the Long Island Expressway in Queens, New York, was closed in both directions due to flooding. Emergency crews in Jersey City, New Jersey, used inflatable boats to rescue 69 people from cars caught in flash floods.