Albany Area Severe Storm Information & Updates
[UPDATED AT 6:39] Looks like we are closer to being in the clear than many counties south of the Albany area. We are still under a tornado watch until around 9PM, and there is still the possibility of some thunderstorms, possibly severe. The worst of the storm is tracking south of the Albany area.
[UPDATED AT 4:50PM] Tornado watch is still in effect for the ENTIRE listening area. Our friends at one of our sister stations in Utica, Lite 98.7, has reported an unconfirmed tornado has touched down in Elmira, NY.
If storms hit our area, please tag any photos on Twitter or Instagram as #518wx
[UPDATED AT 2:09 PM] The National Weather Service has just issued a TORNADO WATCH (not as serious as a warning) for the following New York State counties: Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, Washington, Albany, Columbia, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Rensselaer, and Saratoga. Also issued for Bennington County in Vermont and Berkshire County in Mass.
[UPDATE AT 10:AM} The National Weather Service in Albany is warning that severe weather could be impacting the Albany area during the afternoon hours. Governor Cuomo said that the State Emergency Operations Center will activate at 1PM today (7/26/2012).
Keep checking this article, as we'll be updating it throughout the afternoon and evening with updated information.
Some potentially threatening weather, possibly dangerous will be moving into the region as the afternoon progresses. The severe weather could include high winds, heavy downpours, and possible tornados.
Here are some tips to keep safe and informed:
- charge your cellphone - download radioPup, our free mobile app, so you can keep listening to our station for updates. Pay close attention to watches and warnings!
- bookmark our weather page so you can check our live radar
- tie down outdoor furniture
- check your emergency kit
- stay away from windows
- keep some bottles of water on hand
- make sure your flashlight is working and that you have spare batteries
Also, Alive At Five is moving inside the Times Union Center, just for this week. City leaders are concerned with the threat of this severe weather and if the weather holds off long enough, they'll start the show with a block party outside of the TU Center. Smashmouth is the headliner this week.
If your power is out, please make sure to contact National Grid at their toll free number 1-800-867-5222, and don't assume they already know. If there is a gas leak or downed wires, call 911.