New York, NY – A potent weather system is set to slam New York City on Thursday, threatening Juneteenth holiday celebrations with severe thunderstorms. Residents across the five boroughs should prepare for hazardous conditions beginning in the afternoon. The primary threats include damaging wind gusts, heavy rainfall, and hail, which could cause travel disruptions and localized power outages.
According to the National Weather Service, the chance for severe thunderstorms develops after 2 p.m. Thursday. The storms arrive as temperatures climb to 91 degrees, with heat index values hitting a sweltering 98°F. The combination of intense heat and powerful storms poses a dual risk. Forecasters warn that some storms could produce frequent lightning, creating a dangerous situation for anyone with outdoor plans.
Officials urge residents in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island to secure loose outdoor objects like furniture and decorations ahead of the strong winds. It is advised to avoid non-essential travel during the height of the storms and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. This event precedes a more prolonged period of extreme weather expected to build over the weekend.
Following a brief and sunny reprieve on Friday, an extended period of high heat and humidity will grip the region. The heatwave is expected to begin Sunday and linger through the middle of next week. High temperatures are projected to reach 92 degrees on Sunday and remain there through at least Tuesday, marking the beginning of a significant heat event. Residents should prepare for dangerous conditions by staying hydrated and checking on vulnerable neighbors.
Your Five-Day New York City Weather Outlook:
- WEDNESDAY: [HIGH 81°F] Showers and thunderstorms likely.
- THURSDAY: [HIGH 91°F] Mostly sunny, then severe thunderstorms possible after 2 p.m.
- FRIDAY: [HIGH 81°F] Sunny and pleasant.
- SATURDAY: [HIGH 83°F] Mostly sunny.
- SUNDAY: [HIGH 92°F] Mostly sunny as a heatwave begins to build.
