Violent storms may be moving into WNY

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - 4 Warn Weather is alerting western New York to the potential for severe weather in our region.

Chief meteorologist Don Paul says violent thunderstorms are developing over Michigan and are already sinking East/Southeast and are likely to hook into parts of our area sometime around 2 or 3 Thursday morning. The storms could contain damaging winds, hail, and torrential downpours that may cause flooding.

The storms could further intensify. Get the full 4 Warn Weather forecast here.

And Gov. Andrew Cuomo is urging New Yorkers to be prepared for severe thunderstorms.

Thursday's storms are predicted to bring heavy rain, high winds and possible tornadoes that may cause widespread power outages.

Cuomo says weather officials have predicted a moderate risk of severe weather for the state.

He says the State Emergency Operations Center will be activated at 1 p.m. Thursday and urged residents to pay close attention to local radio and television reports.

Officials say families and individuals should have an emergency kit and an emergency plan in place. The kit should include items such as non-perishable food, water, a portable radio, flashlights and extra batteries.