Irene maintains hurricane strength as it nears NY

MIAMI—Forecasters say Irene has sped up and is maintaining hurricane strength as the storm’s center nears New York City.

The National Hurricane Center said early Sunday that Irene was now moving to the north-northeast at 25 mph (40 kph). It still had maximum sustained winds of 75 mph (120 kph) with the hurricane’s eye only about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south-southwest of New York City.

Forecasters say Irene should pass near New York City soon and move over New England by the afternoon. Officials also warn that isolated tornadoes are possible in the northeast throughout the morning.