Severe Storms May Strike Hudson Valley Wednesday

The National Weather Service predicts thunderstorms could be severe Wednesday. For Dutchess and Ulster counties:

Thunderstorms are likely today into early tonight. There is a slight risk for severe thunderstorms, with the main threat being damaging wind gusts. Large hail and an isolated tornado can not be ruled out. Locally heavy rainfall may lead to urban and poor drainage flooding, with isolated flash flooding possible. Thunderstorms will generally move from the west southwest, toward the east northeast at 25 to 30 mph.

For Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester counties, the forecast is simpler: Severe thunderstorm development is possible today, especially this afternoon and evening. The primary threat is damaging winds.

There is still a heat advisory out for New York City. Extreme heat can cause illness and death among at-risk population who cannot stay cool. The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure.

Temps will not be dropping after the storms — Thursday is shaping up to be also hot and humid.

"However, from later Friday to Saturday, cooler and less humid conditions are likely to push farther to the south and east," said Alex Sosnowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist. "The weather forecast to settle in late this week and this weekend will bring a reduction in energy demands and bring an improvement to air quality."

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