NYC Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch As Massive Storm Approaches

NEW YORK CITY — New York City is under a severe thunderstorm watch as a massive weather system — that forecasters said could cause a tornado — bears down on the city.

The watch is in effect across the five boroughs until 8 p.m. Monday with city officials and National Weather Service forecasters warning of large hail, flooding, strong winds and frequent lightning.

The storm could cause power outages, downed tree limbs and power lines, officials said.

The city is under a travel advisory, in addition to the severe thunderstorm watch, and New Yorkers have been urged to take public transportation.

Drivers should not enter flooded roadways, city officials said.

Airlines canceled more than 400 flights at New York City regional airports and delayed nearly 750 others Monday afternoon.

City emergency management officials warn that a half inch of rain, with locally higher amounts, could fall.

There is a small chance that wind gusts up to 60 mph could hit the city as well, officials said.

"We also encourage New Yorkers to take extra care to secure their property," said Zach Iscol, the city's emergency management commissioner, in a statement.

"Bring in any loose, lightweight objects like garbage cans, potted plants, or lawn furniture that can be easily blown away.”

Gov. Kathy Hochul issued a statewide warning Monday morning with instructions on how to deal with tornados.

"It is critical that New Yorkers use caution today and stay prepared as severe weather is likely to impact many parts of the State," she said in a statement. "I am urging anyone in the path of these storms to keep a close eye on the weather and be prepared to act quickly if severe weather strikes."

Forecasters early Monday warned New York City dwellers about a seldom-seen city tornado could arise in the storm, but the warning does not appear in an updated alert posted at 1:35 p.m.

Tornados are rare in New York City, but they have been seen before.

Brooklyn saw a "baby tornado" in 2018 and a much larger one ravaged Bay Ridge and Sunset Park in 2007.