Flash Flood Warning Tonight for New York City

By Yehudit Garmaise

With the chances of rain hitting 100%, the storm clouds overhead are expected to start sprinkling light rain showers this morning, but as the day progresses, a steady, soaking rain likely will gain momentum, turning into a huge downpour that could cause flash flooding and power outages.

Starting tonight and extending until Wednesday morning, when at least two to three inches of rain are expected to fall quickly, the NYC Emergency Management Department (EMD) has issued a Travel Advisory.

The heaviest rain is expected to fall between 9 p.m. and 3 a..m. tonight, during which time a Flood Watch is an effect citywide.

Also in effect for Brooklyn is a high wind warning that will start at 6 p.m. and last until 6 a.m. Wednesday. 

Winds gusts of 25 to 35 mph are expected during the day with the possibility of exceeding 50 to 60 mph tonight.

The strongest winds are expected from 10 p.m. through 3 a.m. leading to downed trees and branches, power outages, damage to unsecured items, and many travel dangers.

Thunderstorms and lightning will likely be heard and seen tonight as well.

“We're expecting four inches of rain,” said Governor Kathy Hochul, “that will add to the multiple inches of melting snow. We're talking about a very dangerous combination. “Let me be clear: this will be an emergency, it will be serious, and we're urging all New Yorkers to exercise extreme caution at this time. 

"Our dedicated teams are fully mobilized and working in close coordination with the National Weather Service, city and state agency partners, and local utility companies to ensure robust and effective responses,” NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol reassured New Yorkers.