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Strong storms created 'meteotsunami' off Jersey coast

Posted: Updated:
JERSEY SHORE -

The National Weather Service says powerful thunderstorms created a small tsunami off the New Jersey coast Tuesday.

Known as a meteotsunami, it resulted in fluctuating water levels for several hours, reaching as high as 10 inches above normal. But there were no reports of damage from the event.

The abnormally high tides were reported in areas from Perth Amboy to Delaware's Fenwick Island. Data also showed a small tsunami was recorded around 8:40 p.m. at a buoy off Atlantic City.

MORE: PHOTOS: Powerful May 15 thunderstorm in New Jersey

Officials say meteotsunamis are driven by air-pressure disturbances often associated with fast-moving weather events, such as severe thunderstorms and squalls.

Most meteotsunamis are too small to notice.

The Associated Press wire services contributed to this report.

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