Update: 3:15 p.m. — Several municipal buildings are without power, WHCU Radio reports.

14850 Magazine says a few blocks in the downtown area are without power and that some traffic lights are out, too.

Update 2:40 p.m. — About 530 people in the city of Ithaca have lost power because of Wednesday’s storm.  We’ll keep you posted to see if the rains develop into something more serious.

Earlier — 

Ithaca, N.Y. — Heavy rains are moving through the Ithaca area Wednesday afternoon, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a flood advisory.

Related: Crucial agency in Ithaca’s natural disaster relief says it’s stretched dangerously thin

Related: A warning for Ithaca bicyclists: After destructive rains, take extra care coming down hills

“Flash flood watches may be needed so persons living in flood prone areas should be prepared to take action,” the weather service said. Here’s what the NWS put out about the Ithaca area Wednesday afternoon: There were multiple reports of downed wires in the region. NYSEG has not reported any power outages yet.

And added the accompanying caption: “The area in yellow is most likely to see heavy rain through early evening. It is here that flash flooding is possible, especially in urban, low lying, and poor drainage areas. Outside of the yellow area heavy rain is still possible but not as likely to be widespread or as long lasting in duration.”

Jeff Stein

Jeff Stein is the founder and former editor of the Ithaca Voice.