LIRR train strikes fallen tree in Smithtown, injuring one as storms slam Long Island

A Long Island Rail Road train slammed into a large tree that had fallen across the tracks in Smithtown early Monday morning, injuring one person as heavy overnight rain battered the region, officials said.

The Smithtown Fire Department responded to the 5:24 a.m. train wreck, which happened just east of the Smithtown train station. The train hit the tree with enough force to damage the engineer’s compartment.

One person was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries, the department said.

MTA officials confirmed the incident caused delays and cancellations on the Port Jefferson and Oyster Bay branches, with several news outlets, including ABC7 New York, reporting delays of 15 to 45 minutes on the branch as crews worked to clear the tracks.

By 10 a.m., the railroad reported that trains on both branches were on or close scheduled.

Photos released by the Smithtown Fire Department showed the damage to the train after it struck the downed tree.

The Smithtown Fire Department urged residents to stay weather-aware as the threat continues on Monday, warning of the potential for severe thunderstorms, damaging wind gusts and additional downed trees and power lines.

Officials advised residents to delay nonessential travel during the worst of the weather, never drive through flooded roadways, and stay away from downed power lines.

_{Top: Instagram/Smithtown Fire Department}