Possible Tornado Prompts State of Emergency in Nassau County
Possible Tornado Prompts State of Emergency in Nassau County
US · Published Aug 21, 2026
• A possible tornado and severe storms caused significant damage in Nassau County, New York, on August 20,
• A tornado warning was issued from 6:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. EDT, and County Executive Bruce Blakeman reported that a tornado may have touched down in Atlantic Beach. The National Weather Service (NWS) is investigating reports of a waterspout coming ashore in the area. Damage was reported at several beach clubs, including Sun and Surf Beach Club and Silver Point Beach Club, where approximately 50 cabanas were damaged or destroyed. One minor injury was reported, but no serious injuries or rescues were required. Flooding also trapped vehicles, prompting first responders to assist. A state of emergency has been declared, and emergency operations are ongoing.

Impact & Risks

The storms caused extensive property damage, particularly at beach clubs in Atlantic Beach, where cabanas were destroyed. Flooding created hazardous conditions for drivers, and first responders were deployed to assist those trapped in vehicles. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, and only one minor injury occurred. The temporary closure of affected beach clubs will impact local businesses and residents. The NWS is still assessing the situation to confirm whether a tornado or waterspout caused the damage.

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