Travel Advisory Issued For Monday As Up To 4 Inches of Rainfall Expected

New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) has issued a travel advisory for Monday, June 22. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts rain developing late Monday morning and becoming moderate to heavy, with thunderstorms possible Monday afternoon and again late Monday night into early Tuesday.

Total rainfall is expected to reach 0.75 to 2 inches widespread, with localized amounts up to 4 inches. Rainfall rates of 0.5 to 1 inch per hour are likely, with rates of 1.5 to 2 inches per hour possible during the strongest thunderstorms. Southeasterly winds of 10 to 15 mph will bring gusts up to 30 mph, with isolated gusts of 40 to 50 mph possible during thunderstorms. There is a risk of severe weather from Monday morning through Tuesday morning. Light rain may linger through mid Tuesday morning.

Monday is also a Gridlock Alert Day, with the World Cup match between Senegal and Norway scheduled for 8 p.m. at New York New Jersey Stadium.

“Monday’s forecast will bring rain and the potential for thunderstorms with gusty winds, impacting commuting times and outdoor activities. We are coordinating with the FIFA Host Committee and New Jersey for any impacts to the fan fests in Brooklyn and Queens, as well as travel to and conditions during the game,” said NYCEM Commissioner Christina Farrell. “We encourage everyone to add extra time to their commute, avoid flooded roadways and basements, clear catch basins whenever possible and stay informed with the latest weather updates by signing up for Notify NYC.”

On Monday, rain is expected to begin after 10 a.m. and become moderate to heavy through the day. The chance for thunderstorms increases Monday afternoon between 1 and 6 p.m., with a brief lull possible Monday evening before additional thunderstorms become most likely from late Monday night through early Tuesday morning. Lingering drizzle and scattered light rain may continue through mid Tuesday morning. Localized flash flooding is likely in poor-drainage areas during thunderstorm activity, with a low overall flood threat. Ponding on roadways may develop during periods of intense rain and in locations where storm drains are clogged. Potentially damaging wind gusts during thunderstorms could down tree branches and blow away unsecured outdoor objects. A moderate rip current risk is also expected at area beaches on Monday.

During expected heavy rain, NYCEM activates the City’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan, coordinating closely with NWS, city and state agencies, utility providers, and private sector partners. The Flash Flood Plan includes pre-storm actions such as targeted inspection and clearing of catch basins in flood-prone areas by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Transportation to help reduce street flooding before heavy rain begins.

The Downed Tree Task Force has been put on alert to respond to any fallen trees or branches, as well as the Tow Truck Task Force to assist with any stranded vehicles. NYCEM is leading interagency calls to ensure partners are briefed on potential impacts and prepared to increase response operations as needed. NYCEM’s 24/7 Watch Command continuously monitors weather conditions and tracks developing systems in real time.

In order to prepare for Monday’s weather, NYCEM and partners have taken the following actions:

– The Emergency Operations Center at NYCEM will be activated for the FIFA match in NYNJ Stadium, and to monitor weather impacts with representatives from partner agencies.

– Additional staff will be added to NYCEM’s Watch Command Unit.

– Weather forecast and preparedness messaging have been going out to the public over the last several days. The public warning messages are reminding New Yorkers to plan ahead, clean catch basins, and avoid flooded streets.

– Our partners at the Department of Sanitation, Department of Transportation and the Department of Environmental Protection are clearing catch basins.

– Agencies are prepared to provide additional personnel as needed.

New Yorkers should allow extra travel time during periods of heavy rain, especially Monday evening. Monday is also a Gridlock Alert Day as soccer fans travel to New Jersey for the match scheduled at 8 p.m. Avoid driving through flooded streets. Even shallow water can stall vehicles. Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture or trash bins before winds increase. If thunder is heard, move indoors and stay away from open areas. Clear debris from nearby storm drains if it is safe to do so to help reduce street flooding.