NEW YORK, N.Y. – Millions of residents across parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic are under Flood Watches as rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to bring a heightened risk of flash flooding from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center, widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are forecast across the region, with locally 6 inches possible where thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same areas.
The greatest concern includes portions of southeastern New York, northern New Jersey, southwestern Connecticut, and northeastern Pennsylvania, including the Lower Hudson Valley. Forecasters say the heaviest rainfall could overwhelm drainage systems, causing rapid rises on creeks and streams, flooding of low-lying areas, and hazardous travel conditions.
The Weather Prediction Center has highlighted portions of the region with a Moderate Risk (Level 3 of 4) for excessive rainfall, indicating an increased potential for scattered to numerous flash flood events. Areas outside the highest-risk zone remain under Slight or Marginal risks, where localized flooding is still possible.
Officials urge residents to remain alert for changing weather conditions and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Even a small amount of moving water can sweep away a vehicle, and flooding may develop quickly during periods of intense rainfall.
The National Weather Service advises monitoring local forecasts and having multiple ways to receive weather warnings, particularly overnight when flooding can occur with little notice.
Residents should secure outdoor items, avoid flooded roads, and be prepared for possible travel disruptions during Tuesday’s commute and into Wednesday morning as the storm system moves through the region.
The latest forecasts, Flood Watches, and any Flash Flood Warnings can be found at weather.gov.
