A downed tree on subway tracks (MTA via Twitter)
Aug. 4, 2020 By Allie Griffin
The MTA has suspended above-ground subway service as Tropical Storm Isaias batters the five boroughs, knocking over trees and causing power outages.
Only underground subway service will continue until the winds die down.
“To keep everyone safe, we are suspending most outdoor service and will run underground-only subway service until the winds die down,” the MTA said in a Tweet.
The winds in New York Harbor have sustained nearly 60 miles per hour, with gusts up to 75 miles per hour, according to the National Hurricane Center.
High winds have toppled many trees and sent other debris onto tracks in several locations in Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx, the MTA stated.
There are multiple downed trees along the M line between Myrtle Avenue station and the Middle Village – Metropolitan Avenue station, according to the MTA website.
Another tree fell onto the A train tracks near the Howard Beach – JFK Airport stop.
The transit agency encouraged travelers to take extra caution on public transportation and urged New Yorkers to stay home if possible. Buses are running for commuters in need of another option.
The storm has caused several power outages throughout the city as well.
More than 100,000 New Yorkers have lost power at the time of publication, according to Con Edison. Thousands of customers in Middle Village are reportedly without power.
The five boroughs are also under a flash flood warning due to Isais and a travel advisory is in effect for the remainder of the day.
A tree was uprooted in Gantry Plaza State Park today (Photo: Rob Basch)
