Weather Alert Issued For Potential Heavy Rain Sunday Night Into Monday
New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) has issued a Weather Alert for Sunday night, August 16, into Monday morning, August 17. According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms could produce locally heavy downpours, with minor urban and poor-drainage flooding possible and a localized risk of flash flooding.
The greatest risk for locally heavy rainfall and isolated flash flooding is expected late Sunday night into early Monday morning. Heavier downpours could affect overnight travel and the Monday morning commute. NYCEM has activated the City’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan and is coordinating with the National Weather Service (NWS) and City agencies to monitor conditions and prepare for potential impacts.
According to the National Weather Service, most of Sunday is expected to remain dry before showers move into the region this evening. Initial rainfall is expected to be primarily light to moderate, although an isolated thunderstorm or heavy downpour is possible.
Additional showers and a few thunderstorms are expected overnight into early Monday as a warm front and area of low pressure approach the region. Locally heavy downpours are possible, particularly across the New York City metropolitan area if the system tracks farther north.
The NWS Weather Prediction Center has placed New York City in a Marginal Risk, Level 1 of 4, for excessive rainfall and flash flooding tonight. The NWS identifies minor urban and poor-drainage flooding as the primary concern, with a localized flash flood risk, particularly closer to the coast.
Current forecasts call for approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches of rain across much of the area, with locally higher amounts possible in heavier downpours. Brief rainfall rates approaching 1 inch per hour may occur during thunderstorms.
The highest risk for locally heavy rain and isolated flash flooding is expected late Sunday night into early Monday morning. Rain should begin to taper Monday morning, although scattered showers and an isolated thunderstorm may redevelop Monday afternoon or early evening.
Southerly winds will also increase Sunday, with winds of approximately 10 to 20 mph and gusts up to around 30 mph possible. New Yorkers should secure loose outdoor objects and use additional caution while traveling during periods of heavy rain.
