Dangerous Thunderstorms, Flash Flooding And Possible Tornadoes Expected In NYC

NEW YORK, NY— New Yorkers face another day of dangerous weather as multiple rounds of thunderstorms threaten flash flooding, damaging wind gusts and possible tornadoes across the city and surrounding region.

The National Weather Service warns multiple rounds of thunderstorms could produce widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches, with localized amounts reaching 3 to 4 inches.

The strongest storms could drop rain at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour, overwhelming streets, underpasses and other low-lying areas.

A Flood Watch remains in effect through late tonight for all five boroughs.

Where Are Warnings Already In Effect?

Heavy rain prompted a Flood Advisory for Manhattan and the Bronx through 2 p.m., where the National Weather Service warned that one-half to 1 inch of rainfall could flood streets, highways, underpasses and other low-lying areas.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged New Yorkers to prepare before conditions worsen, and check in on neighbors.

“Our administration is getting ahead of storms that are heading to our city these next few days, and New Yorkers should take time to prepare too,” Mamdani said. “Plan for travel delays, and if the rain picks up, winds strengthen, or you hear thunder, go inside and wait out the dangerous conditions.”

When Will The Strongest Storms Arrive?

The National Weather Service report the strongest storms are forecast between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Communities west of New York City face the highest risk of severe weather, though forecasters say storms could still produce damaging winds and flooding as they move into the City.

Could A Tornado Hit NYC?

While tornadoes are not the most likely threat from Tuesday’s storms, forecasters say a few quick-forming tornadoes are possible, especially in the strongest thunderstorms.

These types of tornadoes can develop with little warning and may form quickly as storms move through the region.

The greatest tornado risk is expected west of New York City, but storms moving east could still bring dangerous conditions across the city and surrounding areas.

What Should You Do If A Tornado Warning Is Issued?

• Move indoors immediately.
• Go to the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
• Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
• If you are outside and cannot reach shelter, avoid bridges, trees and vehicles. Find a low-lying area and protect your head.

How Could Travel Be Affected?

The storms have already disrupted travel across the region.

The Federal Aviation Administration issued ground stops at John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport because of thunderstorms.

Departures to JFK faced average delays of about 2.5 hours, while departures to LaGuardia were delayed about 3.5 hours.

Nearly 1,000 flights had been canceled across the Northeast, according to FlightAware.

Earlier in the day, airlines canceled hundreds of flights at the region's three major airports, including:

• LaGuardia: 145 cancellations
• John F. Kennedy: 110 cancellations
• Newark Liberty: 57 cancellations

Drivers also should expect ponding on roads, reduced visibility and delays where heavy rain develops.