A tornado alert currently covers New York City in recent hours. The US National Weather Service raised it to a warning level across the area. Storms are due by the weekend and likely to worsen. Heavy rain and strong winds will hit the area shortly. Roads may experience flooding in low-lying parts. Water could accumulate in low spots under pressure. Air over the city is thick and cloudy, reducing clear view. People should monitor official updates via alerts. They also need to ready emergency kits in case the power goes out when winds pick up.