Flood Watch, Travel Advisory Issued In NYC With Severe Rainfall Expected

NEW YORK CITY — The New York City is expected to be hit with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall beginning Thursday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

Beginning at 2 p.m., the area will be under a flood watch that is scheduled to last until Friday morning.

According to the NWS, the city is expected to see 1.5 to 3 inches of rain, with some area seeing as much as 5 inches. Rainfall rates could exceed 2 inches per hour.

The city is also under a travel advisory, officials announced.

“We have activated the Flash Flood Emergency Plan and are coordinating closely with the National Weather Service and partner agencies,” Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol said in a statement. “Make a plan now, stay alert to changing conditions, and be ready to move quickly at the first sign of rising water, especially if you live in a basement or other below-grade space.”

The advisory is in effect until Friday afternoon.

“Thursday’s storm system is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and potentially dangerous conditions to our city,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said. “Flash flooding is one of the most dangerous hazards we face in New York City because it can happen quickly and without warning. Our emergency teams and city agencies are fully mobilized and prepared, but New Yorkers must also take steps to stay safe. Sign up for Notify NYC, know your exits if you live in a basement apartment, and be ready to act before conditions become life-threatening.”