Tropical Storm Watch Upgraded To Warning As Isaias Aims At NYC

NEW YORK CITY – A tropical storm watch issued for the city Sunday was upgraded early Monday as Isaias churned the Atlantic off the coast of Florida, just 830 miles south of NYC.

With winds blowing at 70 mph and torrential rainfall, the storm is moving north at about 9 mph, the National Weather Service said. It's expected to reach the NYC area Tuesday.

"Isaias will slowly weaken as it accelerates northeast on Tuesday, likely moving over our area Tuesday afternoon and evening," the NWS said.

National Hurricane Center

"The main threats with this system involve heavy rainfall, strong winds, minor to moderate coastal flooding, along with high surf and dangerous rip currents."

Mayor Bill de Blasio said Monday the storm's impact on New York City so far seems will be "limited," but the city has engaged in extensive preparations.

"We’re not taking any chances at all," he said.

De Blasio said Lower Manhattan from South Street Seaport to Wall Street appears "particularly vulnerable" to flooding. He said city emergency management crews installed temporary barriers as flood protection measures.

Between 2 and 4 inches of rain is expected, though it could be as much as 6 inches. It will start early Tuesday and last through to the evening, the NWS said. Tornadoes are also a possibility, the forecast says.

Deanne Criswell, the city's Emergency Management commissioner, said the bulk of rain is expected to begin 1 p.m., although it could start earlier. Winds could reach up to 60 mph, she said.

The NWS tells New Yorkers to:

Make sure you are in a safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding.

Keep cell phones well charged.

Rapidly rising flood waters are deadly. If you are in a flood prone area, consider moving to higher ground. Never drive through a flooded roadway.

Storm surge is the leading killer associated with tropical storms and hurricanes. Make sure you are in a safe area away from the surge zone.

If in a place that is vulnerable to high winds, such as near large trees, a mobile home, upper floors of a high rise building, or on a boat, consider moving to a safer shelter before the onset of strong winds or flooding.

If a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, be ready to shelter quickly, preferably away from windows and in an interior room not prone to flooding. If driving, scan the roadside for quick shelter options.

Closely monitor http://weather.gov, NOAA Weather radio or local news outlets for official storm information. Be ready to adapt to possible changes to the forecast. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings.