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Strong storm to strike area; tornado watch issued

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Strong winds and heavy rain is expected to sweep through the area today lasting well into Wednesday morning.

Rain has already begun falling in Queens accompanied by 30 mph gusts of wind. The storm is expected to strike hardest in the evening.

A thunderstorm warning has been issued for the borough through 8:30 p.m.

Forecasts call for the winds to pick up in the early afternoon with gusts to approach 50 mph. The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory warning residents that downed limbs, trees and power lines are possible in the severe weather.

With the wind will be torrential rains — up to two inches of rain is possible — along with thunder and lightning.

The severe storm can potentially aid in the formation of a tornado, the NWS said. There is a tornado watch in effect for NYC, including Queens, until 9 p.m.  A twister touched down in Queens 10 days ago in Breezy Point.

The storm is expected to remain in the area through tomorrow morning.