New York City hit by Tropical Storm Irene

Strong winds from Hurricane Irene, now downgraded to a tropical storm, have hit New York, bringing torrential rain and the threat of flooding in the financial district.

New York City's public transport system has been closed and the mayor said it was now too late for people to leave.

Irene has already hit North Carolina and Virginia, causing damage and the deaths of at least eight people.

David Willis reports.