NYC Braces for Heavy Rain and Potential Flooding: Flood Watch Issued for All Boroughs

NYC Braces for Heavy Rain and Potential Flooding: Flood Watch Issued for All Boroughs

New York City is facing heavy rain and potential flooding, with showers and downpours expected throughout Tuesday evening. A Flood Watch has been issued for all five boroughs until noon on Wednesday, with the city facing a moderate flood risk.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for Manhattan and the Bronx until 6 p.m., and a Flash Flood Warning for the same two boroughs until 7:45 p.m., with potential for quarter-sized hail and winds up to 60 mph. The National Weather Service warns of significant flooding in some areas, disrupting transportation and underground infrastructure, including basement dwellings.

The New York City Emergency Management Department has issued a Travel Advisory through Wednesday, with expected airport disruptions due to thunderstorms. As of 4:30 p.m., LaGuardia Airport has seen 299 delays and 241 cancellations, JFK Airport has seen 350 delays and 165 cancellations, and Newark Airport has seen 238 delays and 182 cancellations. Ground stops have been issued at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark until 8:30 p.m.

Mayor Eric Adams urges New Yorkers to prepare in advance and take necessary precautions to stay safe. He reassures that relevant city agencies are activated and prepared to handle the situation. He advises residents to stay informed, alert, and, if possible, stay put during the worst of the storm.

NY1 forecasts some areas of the city to see 2 inches of rain or more. The heaviest rainfall is expected Tuesday evening, with conditions improving after midnight. Spotty showers are expected to linger into Wednesday afternoon.

NYC Emergency Management has activated the city's Flash Flood Emergency Plan, enhancing coordination with the National Weather Service, city and state agencies, utility providers, and private sector partners.

Governor Kathy Hochul has instructed all state agencies to be prepared and has activated 100 members of the National Guard for potential deployment. She has also coordinated with MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber and other agency leaders to ensure readiness for worst-case scenarios.

Hochul attributes the frequent severe weather events to climate change and emphasizes the importance of early warning systems and preparation. She has extended the state's emergency operations for the rest of the week, monitoring the remnants of Hurricane Debby moving up the eastern coast.