Queens County, New York — A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado is moving through Queens County this afternoon, and the National Weather Service in Upton, New York has issued a Tornado Warning for the county until 2:00 PM EST.

What is happening:

At 1:13 PM EST, the storm was over Rockaway Beach, moving northeast at 15 miles per hour. Radar showed rotation inside the storm. The dangerous storm will be near Rockaway Beach around 1:20 PM EST and near Kennedy Airport around 1:25 PM EST.

Local impacts:

The storm can produce a tornado and quarter-size hail. Flying debris will be dangerous to anyone caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur, and tree damage is likely.

What to do:

Take cover now. Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Do not take shelter under a highway overpass. Heavy rain may hide this tornado, so do not wait to see or hear it before taking cover.

Source: National Weather Service, Upton, NY, November 12, 2026.