Severe Storms, Flash Flooding, Hail Threat Loom Over NYC: See Timing

NEW YORK CITY — New Yorkers could face several rounds of severe thunderstorms, heavy downpours and localized flash flooding through Thursday, according to city emergency officials.

The most intense storms are expected between 2 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tuesday, potentially disrupting the evening commute, the New York City Emergency Management Department said.

The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center placed New York City under a slight risk — level 2 of 5 — for excessive rainfall for Tuesday.

If the storm takes the more severe track, large hail and damaging winds are possible Tuesday, the forecasters said. Rain falling at a rate of 1-2 inches per hour is possible during the height of the storm in the evening.

"Heavy rain and severe thunderstorms are making their way to our city once again, with the worst conditions expected to hit during the evening commute on Tuesday," Mayor Zohran Mamdani said.

Wednesday will bring a break from the threat of thunderstorms, though periodic rain is expected throughout the day. Thunderstorms are forecast to return Thursday, with some potentially becoming severe.

The greatest risk of heavy rain and localized flash flooding is expected late Tuesday afternoon and evening, as well as late Thursday morning and afternoon. The wet weather is expected to taper off Thursday night.

The city has activated its Flash Flood Emergency Plan and is coordinating with the National Weather Service and other agencies.

Officials urged New Yorkers to allow extra time for travel and avoid flooded streets, subway stations and other low-lying areas. Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians should never attempt to travel through floodwater, which may be deeper than it appears.

Residents of basement apartments and other below-grade spaces should monitor changing conditions and be prepared to move to higher ground before flooding begins, officials said.

For questions, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.