STORM WATCH CONTINUES THIS EVENING
EARLIER TORNADO WARNING
Earlier this afternoon in the 1 p.m. hour, there was a tornado warning on the border of Queens and Nassau County. There has not been any tornado confirmed to have touched down on land, but it did spawn waterspouts and strong wind. News 12 was LIVE on-air for you during that time and more STORM WATCH updates for you this evening and through Friday.
IMPACTS CONTINUE THROUGH FRIDAY
We are continuing to track a nor'easter that is impacting Long Island through much of tomorrow. This is bringing scattered strong thunderstorms this evening, periods of moderate to heavy rain through Friday afternoon, gusty wind, the potential for localized street flooding. On top of that, this storm will usher in much colder temperatures - this will be felt in the form of a cold rain on Friday and colder-feeling weather this weekend.
USE CAUTION TRAVELING
Fallen leaves could clog storm drains, allowing water to accumulate quickly during heavier downpours. Allow extra travel time for the evening commute, slow down on wet roads and never attempt to drive through flooded streets. Please use extreme caution traveling especially during the night when it is much more difficult to see areas of standing water or storm-related damage.
MINOR COASTAL FLOODING CHANCES
We're also monitoring the potential for minor coastal flooding around the times of high tide through tomorrow. Residents in flood-prone shoreline communities, especially along the South Shore and around the bays, should monitor water levels and be prepared for possible flooding of low-lying roads and parking areas. Some beach erosion is also possible where persistent onshore winds and elevated surf develop. The extent of coastal flooding will depend on the storm's track, wind direction and timing of high tides.
FRIDAY'S STORM IMPACTS
Friday is shaping up to be a cold, raw and rainy day across Long Island. That said, there are no severe thunderstorms expected Friday. It is more of just a wet and gusty, colder day.
Periods of rain will continue, with the potential for moderate to heavy rainfall during the morning hours. Temperatures will struggle to climb out of the mid-40s, making it feel more like winter than fall, especially with the damp and windy weather. Please continue to use caution traveling.
Some wet snowflakes are possible with heavier precipitation, but this would just be visual and not impact ground conditions or stick. Be weather-aware during the Friday morning commute, as heavier downpours could lead to additional ponding and localized street flooding. Watch for standing water near intersections, underpasses and other low-lying areas. Wet leaves can also make roadways and sidewalks especially slippery. Give yourself extra time getting to work or school, increase your following distance and keep your headlights on when driving in the rain. Storm rain totals will be around 1 to 4 inches, a wide range because the places that got some of the heavier thunderstorms will have the highest totals.
FRIDAY NIGHT THROUGH THE WEEKEND
The rain will taper off Friday evening, but spotty light drizzle and showers will linger Friday night. This nor'easter will gradually begin to pull away as we head toward Saturday morning. Overnight temperatures will drop into the 30s. Saturday will remain mostly cloudy and chilly, with afternoon highs only reaching the mid- to upper 40s. If you have outdoor activities planned, especially during the morning hours, keep the jacket and umbrella nearby.
Sunday should be the better day for outdoor plans, with a mixture of sunshine and clouds and dry conditions expected. Afternoon temperatures will recover into the upper 40s and a few lower 50s. It will still be chilly, but at least we'll get a break from the rain and gusty winds. Whether you're heading out for a walk, taking care of yard work or enjoying some family activities, Sunday looks like the pick of the weekend.