Coastal communities in Brooklyn and Queens are bracing for the impacts of Jose.

There was a surprising turnout at the Coney Island beach, where people came out to see the storm picking up.

The biggest impact of Jose so far was the whipping wind gusts, causing flags to wave crazily.

TRACKING JOSE: Tropical Tracker | Weather Center | Local Radar | Watch News 12

News 12 spoke with several tourists who said that while they weren't concerned about the weather, it was disappointing to see Coney Island -- an area well known for its rides and summer fun -- on such a gray and gloomy day.

On Tuesday, Jose brought blustery winds and periods of light to moderate rain to the borough. The storm's track was expected to continue moving away from the city before turning back south late Thursday or Friday.

Potential coastal hazards from the storm include high surf, beach erosion and dangerous rip currents.

The National Weather Service downgraded Jose to a tropical storm with top winds speeds of about 70 mph late Tuesday night.