BREAKING: 80 MPH winds, torrential rain slam Suffolk; severe storm warning in effect

A powerful and highly dangerous line of severe thunderstorms is tearing through Suffolk Thursday evening, bringing destructive winds, blinding sheets of rain and a relentless barrage of lightning.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a dire wireless emergency alert to residents across the area, warning of an immediate threat to life and property. The emergency flash alert warned of extreme conditions:

Emergency Alert National Weather Service: SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING in effect for this area until 6:45 PM EDT for DESTRUCTIVE 80 mph winds. Take shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter.

Current conditions across Suffolk

The storm front arrived with sudden, violent intensity just before 6 p.m., instantly turning the early evening sky into a murky twilight. Local reports indicate severe impacts developing rapidly across both the North and South Shores.

Blinding sheets of rain: Torrential downpours are severely reducing visibility on major thoroughfares, such as the Long Island Expressway, Sunrise Highway and Route 25A. Drivers are urged to pull over to a safe location.

Destructive wind gusts: With straight-line winds expected to reach up to 80 mph, there are immediate reports of downed tree limbs, some snapped power lines, and loose outdoor items becoming dangerous airborne projectiles.

Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning: A continuous strobe effect of lightning is illuminating the Suffolk sky, accompanied by near-constant, house-shaking cracks of thunder.

What you need to do right now

Local emergency officials urge Long Islanders in the warned area to take immediate precautions. The high-velocity winds expected with this storm system are capable of causing structural damage equivalent to a microburst or a weak tornado.

Seek shelter immediately: Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Stay as far away from windows, glass doors, and exterior walls as possible.

Avoid travel: Do not attempt to drive through the torrential rain. Roads are quickly becoming compromised by blinding spray, ponding water and fallen debris.

Prepare for power outages: With 80 mph winds hitting fully leafed trees, PSEG Long Island crews are bracing for widespread power interruptions. Ensure mobile devices are charged and keep flashlights readily accessible.

_{Top: Brian Harmon photo}