South Irving Street Blocked as Widespread Winds Batter New Jersey and the Region
photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
High winds have arrived in New Jersey, with the Northeast region experiencing widespread gusts between 40 and 60 mph and localized pockets potentially reaching 70 mph—near hurricane-force strength.
The power of these winds was dramatically demonstrated late Wednesday night, 11/05, in Ridgewood, NJ. A massive shade tree was toppled in the 300 block of South Irving Street, causing a total blockage of the roadway between Arden Court and Grove Street.
Quick Facts on the Ridgewood Incident:
| Detail | Status |
| Location | 300 Block of South Irving Street, Ridgewood |
| Time | Late Wednesday night, 11/05/2025 |
| Injuries | None reported |
| Property Damage | Minimal |
| Utilities | No wires were involved |
| Response | Ridgewood Police Department and Ridgewood Emergency Services |
While the lack of injuries and minimal property damage is fortunate, the fallen tree serves as a clear warning about the current wind hazards.
The Northeast Wind Threat: What to Expect
The weather system is bringing extreme wind speeds that can easily cause major property damage, power outages, and dangerous driving conditions.
- Widespread Risk: Winds are affecting a large area across the Northeast.
- Peak Gusts: Look out for gusts approaching 70 mph, which are strong enough to damage roofs, down power lines, and uproot mature trees, even those that appear healthy.
Safety First: How to Prepare for High Winds
Ridgewood Police and Emergency Services are working to clear the obstruction on South Irving Street, but residents across Bergen County should take immediate precautions:
- Secure Outdoor Objects: Bring loose items like patio furniture, trash cans, and garden tools indoors or tie them down.
- Stay Away from Trees: Avoid parking cars or standing near large, mature trees and utility poles.
- Power Outage Prep: Have flashlights, batteries, and fully charged cell phones ready in case power lines are downed.
- Drive Safely: High winds make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. If possible, avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind hours.
If you encounter a blocked road or downed wires, do not attempt to move debris yourself. Contact local authorities or your utility company immediately.
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OMG. A stiff breeze blows these days, and off go the alarm bells. The Weather Channel dispatches the puddle sitters, PSE&G texts about power outages, and the blog simply repeats the nonsense. Nothing much happens except the obviously rotted tree falls, and now we await the next calamity. STOP.
Massive oak trees on that stretch of road.
Teacher’s row, they used to call it (but that might be the part between Spring and East Ridgewood Ave. ?).
Tropical Storm David in 1979 took a big oak across from Arden Court, ripped it right out of the ground and toppled it. Might actually have been a microburst within the storm. ABC News TV covered it with a news van at the time.
Some may remember Cook It Before It Rots parties.
Years ago when the Village ordered sidewalk replacements, the “arborists” cut some of the roots closest to the sidewalk so cement could be even. This was a big mistake as you can see from the photo how flat the stump is. Trees need their roots!
Residents of S Irving, between Evergreen and R Ave had a brilliant solution: a more flexible concrete type which allows the roots to stay.
Yes. But Rutishauser says we have not had a harsh enough winter yet to decide if the flexible sidewalks are durable. Give me a break. Winters are not as harsh now. Period. Let’s move forward with the flexible sidewalks and save the trees.