A state of emergency is in effect for all 21 counties in New Jersey due to severe weather.

Acting Gov. Tahesha Way put the order in effect, citing the threat of flash flooding, damaging wind gusts and intense rainfall.

“We are expecting severe thunderstorms to bring heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts with the potential for flash flooding across the state,” said Way. “Residents should remain off the roads and indoors unless absolutely necessary.”

Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches were expected, with some areas possibly seeing up to 7 inches. Officials warned the storms could lead to landslides, rockslides and flooded roads.

Tornado warnings were issued in several parts of New Jersey on Thursday afternoon as the storms arrived in the state.

A ground stop was issued at Newark Liberty International Airport for a time due to the storms.. Travelers were advised to check with their airlines to find out the status of their flights.

All state offices, including the Motor Vehicle Commission, closed early. Customers with canceled appointments will receive a courtesy return pass.

The stormy weather comes less than two weeks after another series of storms left parts of Central Jersey damaged by severe flooding, particularly in Plainfield.