Workers restoring power after severe storm strikes

TRENTON, N.J. (WTXF/AP) - Utility crews are restoring service after strong storms swept through New Jersey -- downing branches, trees and power lines -- and leaving a Monday morning mess.

South Jersey was the hardest hit, Sunday night, especially areas like West Deptford and Washington Township.

Atlantic City Electric said nearly 19,000 homes and businesses were without power at the height of the storm, mostly in Gloucester and Salem counties.

FOX 29's Jennifer Joyce reported at about 6am Monday, only about 600 customers were without service, mostly in Gloucester County.

The National Weather Service had issued thunderstorm watches and warnings for the state and wind gusts as high as 70 mph were recorded.

There were delays of more than an hour at Philadelphia International Airport and rain postponed the NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Pocono Raceway until Monday.

No major damage or injuries were reported.

As we move into the workweek, we will kick off the week with sunshine and warm temperatures. There will be a chance of showers on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Click here for FOX 29 meteorologist Scott Williams and the Weather Authority Wednesday morning update.

In northwestern Pennsylvania, the National Weather Service is investigating a severe storm that downed trees and may have spawned a small tornado.

The storm hit parts of Erie, Crawford and Warren counties Sunday evening.

No injuries were immediately reported, but Warren County Public Safety Director Todd Lake says several trees were downed and hundreds left without power for a time.

Lake says he's asking the weather service to investigate because some of the downed trees are "crisscrossed" which he says is "a major tell-tale sign or tornadic activity."

Gusts as strong as 70 mph were forecast. It wasn't immediately clear how strong the winds actually blew.