Binghamton, New York – Residents across central New York and northeastern Pennsylvania should prepare for multiple rounds of heavy rain through Wednesday night as a slow-moving storm system raises the threat for flash flooding. The National Weather Service has expanded a Flash Flood Watch westward to Interstate 81, with localized flooding becoming increasingly likely where storms repeatedly track over the same locations.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, the Flash Flood Watch is in effect from 11 a.m. today through 8 p.m. Wednesday for most areas east of Interstate 81. Forecasters expect several rounds of showers and embedded thunderstorms capable of producing prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, especially from this afternoon into early Wednesday morning.
Most communities are expected to receive 1.5 to 3 inches of rain through Wednesday night, while the southern Catskills and the Poconos could see 3 to 5 inches, with isolated higher totals possible. Areas east of the Catskills and Poconos face the greatest flood risk, where repeated downpours could quickly overwhelm creeks, streams and urban drainage systems.
Cities including Binghamton, Oneonta, Norwich, Monticello, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Honesdale and surrounding communities should be prepared for flooded roads, rapidly rising small streams and hazardous travel. A few thunderstorms today could also produce strong, gusty winds, particularly across Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, where a Level 1 of 5 Marginal Risk for severe weather is in place.
Motorists should never drive through flooded roadways and should expect changing conditions during periods of heavy rain. Residents in flood-prone areas should monitor water levels closely, charge electronic devices and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. Additional Flash Flood Warnings may be issued with little notice as heavier rain bands develop through Wednesday night.
