The New York City Emergency Management Department alerts New Yorkers of the potential for severe weather this evening. According to the later National Weather Service forecast, strong to severe thunderstorms are possible this afternoon into the evening and could bring brief heavy downpours, hail, and the potential for damaging winds to the city. The heaviest period of rain and thunderstorms is expected between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. There is a slight chance of isolated tornadoes.

“The increased potential for severe thunderstorms may create dangerous travel conditions this evening,” NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Esposito said. “New Yorkers should stay inside during periods of severe weather. If you are outside during a thunderstorm, avoid open areas and immediately seek shelter indoors.”

A total of a half an inch of rain is forecast, but locally higher.

The National Weather Service issued multiple tornado warnings throughout New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Sullivan and Pike counties had tornado warnings until 4 p.m., while Hunterdon and Bucks counties’ warnings lasted until 4:15 p.m.

A tornado watch has been issued for parts of New Jersey as more severe weather approaches the Tri-State area.

Earlier tornado warnings have expired.

The watch area includes Hunterdon, Mercer and Warren Counties and parts of south Jersey until 8:00 p.m.

[5/29/2019 915 am] Storm Prediction Center increased the potential for severe thunderstorms today. There is now an enhanced threat for severe thunderstorms across much of NYC and NE NJ.

Please continue monitoring NWS forecasts at https://t.co/gHNRRsjqm2https://t.co/57mqQAbcC6 pic.twitter.com/PuzxaJJudY

— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) May 29, 2019

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)