New York, NY – Scattered severe thunderstorms could impact millions across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut Friday afternoon and evening, bringing a heightened risk for damaging wind gusts and sudden power outages.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, much of the tri-state region is under a “slight risk” for severe weather from midday through Friday night, including key cities like New York, Newark, Bridgeport, and Waterbury. The primary hazard with these storms will be strong, fast-moving wind gusts capable of toppling trees and downing power lines—especially during the evening commute.
Local emergency managers urge residents from Montauk to Newburgh and Paterson to Essex to secure outdoor items and have flashlights ready in case of outages. Travelers should monitor road conditions, particularly on I-95, the Hutchinson River Parkway, and the Garden State Parkway, where sudden storms could reduce visibility and scatter debris. If you have outdoor plans, consider moving activities indoors after 2 p.m., as the most intense weather is expected between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
This summer’s storm threat comes on the heels of recent heat advisories and mirrors similar July severe weather events in 2021 and 2023, which caused widespread tree damage and scattered outages across the region.
Storms may linger into the early overnight hours. Additional watches and warnings could be issued as Friday unfolds, so stay tuned to local updates and NOAA Weather Radio.
