NOAA Issues Tornado Warning for Columbia, Dutchess Counties

A tornado warning was issued at 1:22 PM EDT Saturday for parts of Columbia and Dutchess counties in New York after radar detected a thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado moving northeast at 30 mph.

The warning-which remained in effect until 6 PM UTC-highlighted the immediate threat to residents in and around Red Hook and Rhinebeck, where shifting winds and rotating storm cells raised concerns of funnel cloud formation. Local officials urged swift sheltering as the storm tracked toward more densely populated areas.

Residents in the warning zone were advised to seek refuge in interior rooms on the lowest floor of sturdy buildings, avoiding windows and exterior walls. Schools and businesses in Rhinebeck, Tivoli and Germantown suspended outdoor activities, and some transit services operated with caution as crews monitored storm progress.

Subheadings:

• Storm Path and Timing
• Safety Measures and Shelter Locations
• Community Response and Transit Delays

Storm Path and Timing The National Weather Service pinpointed the storm’s center near Red Hook at 1:22 PM EDT, moving northeast at roughly 30 mph toward Rhinebeck and beyond. Doppler radar indicated rotation within the cell, prompting the tornado warning until atmospheric conditions moderated later in the evening.

Safety Measures and Shelter Locations Officials reminded residents to take shelter immediately in basements or designated storm shelters. Mobile home parks in Columbia County opened community centers as temporary refuges. Emergency management teams coordinated with local schools to confirm all students were relocated indoors.

Community Response and Transit Delays Several public transit lines serving northern Dutchess County reported delays after crews secured overhead equipment. Some local roads were closed by state troopers due to downed branches and flooding from accompanying heavy rains. Shelters established at town halls reported steady occupancy as families sought safe harbor.