Severe thunderstorms are sweeping across parts of upstate New York this afternoon, bringing damaging winds, hail, and the potential for flash flooding.
As of 1:30 p.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service has issued multiple severe thunderstorm warnings across counties including Oswego, Monroe, Livingston, Ontario, Wayne, and Cayuga. A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. for much of western and central New York.
Radar has detected storms capable of producing wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to the size of quarters (1 inch). The storms are moving northeast at approximately 30 mph.
Areas impacted include:
In Oswego County: Oswego, Scriba, Minetto, New Haven, and Battle Island State Park
In Monroe and surrounding counties: Brighton, Henrietta, Walworth, Macedon, and the Rochester area, including Rochester International Airport
Some storms could cause damage to roofs, trees, and vehicles, forecasters said.Motorists are advised to use caution and avoid flooded roads.
Marine warnings have also been issued for Lake Ontario, with gusts up to 40 knots threatening small craft. Locations such as Sodus Bay, Irondequoit Bay, and Oswego could see hazardous conditions on the water.
Flooding concerns remain ongoing at Cayuga Lake in Ithaca, where water levels continue to stay above flood stage. Low-lying shoreline areas remain at risk.
Residents are urged to seek shelter indoors and monitor local alerts as the storms continue to move across the region.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Severe thunderstorm warning issued in NY: Damaging winds, hail