Potentially severe thunderstorms are expected to lash the New York City metro area later Thursday, bringing the threat of damaging straight-line wind and hail as we kick off one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

"At 11:04 a.m., a severe thunderstorm was located over Slocum Creek Campground, or 34 miles northeast of Rome, moving northeast at 20 mph," says the weather service. "Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees."

"The storm which prompted the warning continues to move out of the area. Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. However gusty winds are still possible with this thunderstorm. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 p.m. for northern New Jersey," says the National Weather Service.