Tornado, Flood Watches As Tropical Storm Isaias Arrives

The flooding rain threat has decreased as Tropical Storm Isaias moves north-northeast along the Mid-Atlantic coast, bringing high winds, heavy rain and even possibly a few tornadoes to the Hudson Valley.

It will weaken as it accelerates northeast, forecasters said.

"The effects of this storm for the region will be like a powerful nor’easter," said Hudson Valley Weather.

Most of the region will get 1-3 inches of rain but up to 6 inches of rain is possible in some areas. The heaviest rain is most likely to occur across the lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Northeast New Jersey and Tuesday morning through evening.

A 24-hour flash flood watch went into effect at 6 a.m. in the lower valley. Along the coast there is potential for storm surge flooding greater than 1 foot above ground.

For the mid-Hudson Valley, a flash flood watch is in effect until 8 a.m. Wednesday. A wind advisory goes into effect at 2 p.m.

The wind threat forecast is unchanged: 30-40 mph with gusts to 60 mph. ""The period for most concern for wind is before the center's arrival and as it departs," said Hudson Valley Weather.

A tornado watch went into effect at 7:20 a.m. for Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester counties.

The good news is that Wednesday will be mostly sunny. However, it won't be much cooler: Highs in the mid 80s.