The latest U.S. intelligence report on Al Qaeda indicating that the terrorist organization might try to carry out attacks in New York City during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, prompted local authorities to beef up security.

The FBI-gathered information showed that Al Qaeda had been plotting a terrorist attack on the subway. Although authorities believe the plot did not progress beyond preliminary discussions, the security is being boosted. An attack during the holiday season when public transportation systems are packed with travelers would surely cause numerous deaths.

The report about the suspected plot from Al Qaeda was issued Tuesday by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security. The report said that the FBO had received what they described as a plausible but unsubstantiated report indicating that Al Qaeda terrorists in late September may have discussed targeting transit systems in and around New York City," according to Chicago Tribune. The discussion between al Qaeda members involved the use of suicide bombers or explosives placed on subway/passenger rail systems.

The source of intelligence wasn’t mentioned by authorities.

"It is very good information," Rep. Peter King of Seaford, the ranking Republican member of the House Committee on Homeland Security.

New York City's Metropolitan Transportation Authority said it will collaborate with officials to boost police presence throughout the bus and rail system.

"In an abundance of caution the NYPD has deployed additional resources in the mass transit system," Deputy Police Commissioner Paul Browne told Reuters.