(The following story by John Valenti appeared on the Newsday website on January 11.)
NEW YORK — Early-morning rain is causing slick road conditions, resulting in heavy rush-hour traffic on the Long Island Expressway, Northern State Parkway and Southern State Parkway on Friday in western Nassau County and eastern Queens.
The conditions have also led to a series of minor accidents that have created delays.
The Long Island Rail Road is reporting 5-10 minute delays on the Main Line west of Hicksville due to “weather-related signal problems.” The Federal Aviation Administration is reporting up to 30 minute delays on departures at Kennedy Airport and up to 45 minute delays on departures at LaGuardia.
Meanwhile, the National Weather Service has issued a “Hazardous Weather Outlook” advisory for the metro area, warning that thunderstorms are possible later in the morning — some which “could produce gusty winds.” Areas of fog are also possible before noon.
Winds are currently from the east at 13 mph. The temperature is 45 degrees with a high of about 54 degrees expected.
That weather has caused LaGuardia and Kennedy to institute a so-called “Traffic Management Program” on Friday.
This is causing gate hold and taxi delays for flights at the two airports, according to the FAA, and also is affecting arrivals.
There are no reported delays at Long Island-MacArthur or Newark-Liberty. However, the FAA is advising all travelers contact their airlines for further information on delays.