A tornado caused damage to a beach club in Long Island, New York, on Thursday evening, August 20, 2026, after multiple waterspouts were observed in the region. The weather event, which has not been seen in the area since November 2021, prompted officials to declare a state of emergency in Nassau County.

The National Weather Service confirmed that a waterspout in southern Nassau County came ashore as a tornado between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. The twister hit the Sun and Surf Beach Club in Atlantic Beach, resulting in the injury of one beach club employee and the damage or destruction of 30 one-story cabanas.

The injured employee declined medical attention, and no other civilian or first responder injuries were reported. The Inwood Fire Department chief fire marshal stated that search teams were mobilized to ensure no one was trapped within the damaged structures. Nearby Silver Point Beach Club also sustained property damage from the tornado.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman declared a state of emergency for the county on Thursday. He also noted that first responders assisted in rescuing individuals trapped in vehicles on Long Island's south shore due to flooding.

The National Weather Service and emergency management partners are currently reviewing damage and radar data to determine the tornado's precise strength and overall impact. The area experienced severe storms that included heavy rain and strong winds.

Separately, another tornado struck Dover, Delaware, on Thursday night, causing significant damage, including downed trees and power outages. Officials in Dover also declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay home while crews worked to restore services and clear debris.

The convergence of waterspouts and a confirmed tornado in the New York area highlights the severe weather impacting the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. This includes reports of flash flooding and strong winds across various locations.

This tornado marks a significant weather event for Long Island, which had not experienced such a phenomenon since a notable outbreak in November 2021. The focus remains on assessing the full extent of the damage and ensuring the safety of affected communities.