Plainfield Lightning Strike: Tree Damage, Home Impact, Storm Response

A large tulip tree was struck by lightning on South End Parkway in Plainfield around noon Saturday during the first wave of severe storms. The lightning tore bark from the trunk and split the tree, sending several large limbs crashing onto the house below. Heavy branches fell on the roof, causing minor damage above a bay window.

Emergency crews arrived to assess the scene during a brief break in the storm around 12:45 p.m. No injuries were reported.

As the storm continued throughout the afternoon, Plainfield's Office of Emergency Management urged residents to use 911 only for life-threatening emergencies. The OEM asked people to contact the Plainfield Police Department Non-Emergency Line at (908) 753-3112 to report non-emergency storm damage, including downed trees, flooding, or hazardous road conditions. This guidance helps emergency services prioritize life-safety situations during active weather events.

The severe weather swept through Union County as part of a broader storm system that threatened the region through Saturday night.

Plainfield residents who experienced storm damage should document any damage with photos for insurance claims. If trees are down or property is damaged, report it to police on the non-emergency line if it is not an active threat to safety. Clear branches from roadways only if safe to do so; otherwise, let emergency crews handle larger debris removal.

For updates on Plainfield public safety and weather-related incidents, visit Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What happened on South End Parkway Saturday?
A: A large tulip tree was struck by lightning around noon, splitting the trunk and sending heavy branches onto the house below. The lightning tore bark from the tree and damaged the roof above a bay window. No injuries were reported.

Q: When did emergency crews arrive?
A: Emergency crews arrived to assess the scene around 12:45 p.m., during a brief break in the storm.

Q: Should I call 911 to report storm damage?
A: No. Use 911 only for life-threatening emergencies. For non-emergency storm damage like downed trees, flooding, or hazardous road conditions, call Plainfield Police Non-Emergency Line at (908) 753-3112.

Q: What should I do if my home has storm damage?
A: Document any damage with photos for insurance claims. Report it to police on the non-emergency line if it is not an active safety threat. If trees are down on roadways, only clear them if safe; otherwise, let emergency crews handle debris removal.

Q: Was this storm just in Plainfield?
A: No. This was part of a broader storm system that moved through Union County Saturday, with severe weather continuing through Saturday night.

Q: What numbers should I have on hand for storm emergencies?
A: Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies only. For non-emergency storm damage in Plainfield, call the Police Non-Emergency Line at (908) 753-3112. Contact your insurance company to report property damage.

Newsletter Blurb

Lightning struck a large tree on Plainfield's South End Parkway Saturday, causing minor damage to a nearby home. No injuries reported. Residents are urged to report non-emergency storm damage through the Plainfield Police Non-Emergency Line.