Strong to severe storms are expected to move through the New York City area Thursday, prompting a flood watch for several counties as forecasters warn of heavy rainfall capable of overwhelming rivers, creeks and low-lying areas.
The National Weather Service issued the flood watch this afternoon, giving residents advance notice ahead of what could be a soggy and potentially dangerous stretch of weather.
Which areas are under the flood watch?
The watch covers Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester counties in the Hudson Valley, running from noon to 11 p.m. Thursday. The National Weather Service says excessive rainfall during that window could lead to flooding across the region.
What kind of flooding risk does this storm bring?
Forecasters warn that excessive runoff may cause rivers, creeks and streams to rise out of their banks, with flooding also possible in poor drainage and urban areas. The National Weather Service is urging residents in flood prone locations to stay alert for updated forecasts and be prepared to take action if flooding develops.
How does this fit into the broader forecast for the NYC area?
The stormy stretch follows a stretch of sunny, pleasant weather earlier in the week. PIX11 meteorologists are tracking the same system, describing Thursday’s threat as strong to severe storms targeting the wider NYC metro area, with the local two day forecast showing a high chance of heavy thunderstorms and a 94% chance of precipitation.
Could the storms turn severe beyond just heavy rain?
Meteorologists are watching the system closely given its potential to strengthen, with strong to severe storms in the forecast for the broader tri-state region on Thursday. That combination of heavy rainfall and storm intensity is part of why the watch was issued a full day in advance.
What should residents in flood prone areas do to prepare?
The National Weather Service recommends monitoring later forecasts closely and staying alert for the possibility of the watch being upgraded to a warning, which would indicate flooding is imminent or already occurring. Residents in low-lying or historically overflowing prone areas should have a plan ready in case conditions escalate quickly Thursday.
When does the risk clear?
The watch is set to expire at 11 p.m. Thursday, though conditions could shift depending on how the storm system moves through the region. Residents should continue checking updated forecasts throughout the day as the situation develops…