The Latest Storm Updates

This blog will be updated with the latest in hurricane news around Bayside. Send storm photos and tips to post for the entire community to Lori.gross@patch.com.

11:20 a.m.- "Stay off roads if possible," says Councilman Mark Weprin. "There are trees blocking Francis Lewis Blvd and Little Neck pkwy. Many traffic lights out," he added.

10:54 a.m.- Stay inside all day Sunday if you haven't evacuated, says Councilman Dan Halloran's office. And only use 911 for real emergencies.

10:48 a.m.- From the Office of Emergency Management; "Due to flooding, the FDR Drive is fully closed, with the exception of E Houston St to E 34 St, MN. Consider alternate routes."

10:39 a.m.- The Holland Tunnel now reportedly re-opened after flooding.

9:13 a.m.-Bay Terrace Community Alliance President Warren Schreiber says; "Bay Terrace, Northeast Queens, NY - Being battered by sustained high winds with gusts of even greater intensity. It's possible this may be where the eye hits."

9:12 a.m.- The AP is reporting that Irene has been downgraded to a tropical storm.

8:10 a.m.- Councilman Dan Halloran says; "There is sheeting rain causing major road ponding throughout the district, with spot outages. We are about three hours from high tide and the eye of the hurricane. That will tell us whether flooding will affect the B & C Zones appreciably. There are trees down everywhere and more debris flying- BE CAREFUL!!"

7:54 a.m.-We've got an uncomfirmed report that the Clearview Expwy. and Southbound Grand Central Pkwy have been closed because of downed trees. 

7:51 a.m- Isolated tornados are still a threat for the entire region.