NWS Determines Macroburst Caused Damage, Not A Tornado

By Geoff Bansen

EAST GREENWICH, N.J. (CBS) - The National Weather Service traveled to New Jersey yesterday to survey the damage. After assessing, they determined that it was not a tornado, but in fact a macroburst near East Greenwich in Gloucester County that caused the extensive wind damage.

A macroburst is a convective downdraft storm that causes straight line winds, with peak winds lasting between 5 and 20 minutes. As opposed to a microburst which affects a smaller area, macrobursts affect areas of at least 2.5 miles.

Even though it is not a tornado, macrobursts can cause damage equivalent of EF3 intensity. Tuesday evening's event had winds as high as 85 mph, taking down trees and power lines and sending debris flying. As the cleanup effort continues, many residents still remain without power.