Meteorologists predict this weekend to be cool and comfortable, but extreme weather conditions are looming before Saturday and Sunday.
A flash flood warning is in effect for NYC as of Thursday, July 31st following our three-day heatwave with temperatures that felt like 105°F and led to poor air quality.
“This storm system could bring intense rainfall rates and amounts in a very short period of time,” NYCEM Commissioner Iscol said in a statement. “We have activated the Flash Flood Emergency Plan and are coordinating closely with the National Weather Service and partner agencies.”
If you’re potentially out and about, here’s what you need to know.
Flash flood warning: NYC under advisory today
The afternoon of Thursday, July 31st, NYC could potentially see anywhere from 2 to 5 inches of rain. However, NBC New York weather experts believe that the low humidity could potentially divert any extreme conditions.
And thank goodness for that: New Yorkers are definitely hoping for mild weather, considering extreme flooding in mid-July led to record-breaking conditions and a flooded the 1 Train station at 28th Street.
According to The New York Post, FOX Forecast Center meteorologist Christopher Tate said, “New York City picked up a hair over 2 inches — 2.07 inches to be exact — making it the second wettest single hour ever recorded in the city.”
In the event we’re due for a repeat, it’s best to stay prepared.
“Our emergency teams and city agencies are fully mobilized and prepared, but New Yorkers must also take steps to stay safe,” New York City mayor Eric Adams said in a statement. “Sign up for Notify NYC, know your exits if you live in a basement apartment, and be ready to act before conditions become life-threatening.”
As of 1:20pm, that National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for all of NYC until 8pm on Thursday. Additional New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a state of emergency.
“I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we expect excessive rainfall with the potential for flash flooding,” she said in a statement. “State agencies are on standby for heavy downpours and localized flooding and will be monitoring the situation in real-time to ensure the safety of all New Yorkers in the path of the storm.”
The New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services recommends taking the following actions in the event of a flooding emergency:
- Never walk or drive through flood waters—6” of water can knock you down
- Move to higher ground & avoid basements
- Don’t enter flooded subways or underpasses
- Evacuate immediately if told to do so
For more information, stay in tune with the New York City Emergency Management System and dial 9-1-1 in the event of any emergencies. Stay safe, NYC.