Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for Orleans, much of upstate until 6 p.m.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a severe thunderstorm watch until 6 p.m. for Orleans County and much of upstate. In Western New York, the watch includes all counties except Chautauqua.
“The primary threat will be damaging wind gusts, though large hail or an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out,” NWS in Buffalo posted on its social media.
A special marine warning also has been issued in Lake Ontario until 12:15 p.m. from near Sunset Beach to near Braddock Bay.
The Weather Service said wind gusts to nearly 50 knots and large destructive hail are moving west from Hamlin.
“Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves,” the Weather Service said. “Large hail could result in personal injury and significant structural damage.”
Boaters are advised to move to safe harbor immediately as gusty winds and high waves are expected.
