Severe storms force LIRR branches to suspend service

A strong band of thunderstorms made its way through Nassau County on Thursday as dangerous lightning, torrential downpours and winds in excess of more than 70mph have been reported. Forecasters urge people to take shelter as soon as possible, and stay until the brunt of the storm passes.

Thousands of LIRR passengers endured hours of delays, and the storm created power outages for 13,000 customers throughout Nassau County, according to LIPA.

"My husband has been trying to get home for 3 1/2 hours from the city," said one Oceanside resident at around 8 p.m. "This reminds me of the blackout."

Mark Harrison, the tennis director at the Lawrence Village Country Club was playing in the 55-and-over National Grass Courts at Forest Hills when, according to his wife, Diane, he said a small tornado came down on the courts. "My son came from East Rockaway to pick him, and three others, up because the car they came in was trapped by a tree. The tennis facility was devastated.

The National Weather Service reported rough conditions at Atlantic beaches, including Nassau County, with swells generated from Hurricane Igor. High surf is expected to impact area beaches, resulting in strong rip currents and localized beach erosion.

Other cancellations

The Conference II football game between Elmont and Wantagh was stopped at halftime because of the storm. The Spartans led the Warriors 6-0. Officials said the game, played at Elmont High School, would likely be continued on Sunday but they have not made a decision yet. The game between Long Beach and Valley Stream Central at Firemen's Field was also suspended at halftime. The game was tied at 21.

The National Weather Service said rip currents are expected to be very strong along Atlantic beaches, and recommend that beachgoers avoid swimming in unsupervised areas. Lifeguards are no longer on duty in Long Beach.