Rochester, N.Y. – Heavy rainstorms rolling into western and central New York Tuesday afternoon could trigger flash flooding across several counties, including Rochester, Watertown, and Oswego, through early Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Flood Watch is in effect from 2 p.m. Tuesday through 8 a.m. Wednesday for Monroe, Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Ontario, and Allegany counties. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are likely, with isolated areas seeing even higher amounts, raising the risk of flooding in low-lying areas, creeks, and urban streets.
Localized downpours are expected to intensify late Tuesday as showers and thunderstorms develop over already saturated ground. In Rochester and surrounding suburbs, the Genesee River and Irondequoit Creek could swell rapidly. In Watertown, runoff from the Black River may impact nearby neighborhoods, while Oswego and Northern Cayuga County could see flash flooding near Lake Ontario tributaries.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roads, especially at night when water depth is harder to judge. Emergency crews recommend charging devices in case of power outages and having a go-bag ready in flood-prone areas.
Flood alerts remain in effect through Wednesday morning. More warnings may be issued if rainfall rates exceed current predictions.
