The New York City area faces the threat of strong to severe thunderstorms Friday evening, with damaging winds and possible tornadoes ahead of a powerful cold front that will usher in some of the coldest air of the season.

Storm Team 4 is tracking a line of thunderstorms expected to develop and move across the region between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. Friday.

While damaging wind gusts are the primary concern, isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

The storms are expected to move quickly, reducing the overall threat of flooding.

A severe t hunderstorm watch is in effect until 8 p.m. Friday for areas generally west of the New York City metropolitan area, including Sullivan County, New York, and Pike County, Pennsylvania.

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The National Weather Service could issue additional watches for areas closer to New York City, depending on how atmospheric conditions develop throughout the afternoon.

Storm Team 4 say the severity of the storms will depend heavily on cloud cover and afternoon temperatures.

If skies clear and temperatures climb well into the 70s, increased atmospheric instability could fuel stronger thunderstorms.

However, if clouds persist and temperatures remain cooler, the storms could weaken significantly before reaching the city.

The National Weather Service is expected to reassess conditions later Friday afternoon.

Friday began with warm, muggy conditions and scattered morning showers.

A relative lull in precipitation is expected through much of the afternoon before stronger thunderstorms develop during the evening.

The greatest window of concern is between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., when storms could produce:

Residents should monitor weather alerts and be prepared to seek shelter if severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued.