NYC Flooding Downpour Risk through Labor Day

By Kristina Pydynowski, Senior Meteorologist

September 1,2013; 5:09PM,EDT

 

 

 

Thunderstorms capable of causing flash flooding will continue to occasionally cross the New York City area through Labor Day.
Runoff from one such thunderstorm forced police to close an intersection in Ridgewood, N.J., Sunday morning.
Motorists should prepare for similar incidents and the resultant delays on area streets, highways, expressways and interstates as the rest of this holiday weekend progresses and additional drenching thunderstorms arrive.
Not every thunderstorm will lead to flooding, but the threat is present for localized problems to occur.

Even where flash flooding does not ensue, the downpours will bring reduced visibility and a heightened risk of vehicles hydroplaning to motorists.
Airline passengers at the city's three major airports may also encounter delays and headaches.
Those with outdoor plans should prepare to move inside for a time or make indoor alternatives. Officials may be forced to temporarily halt play at the U.S. Open in Flushing.
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The good news is that there will still be rain-free intervals through Labor Day.
Residents and visitors should just stay alert for changing weather and seek shelter when storm-related warnings are issued or thunder is heard. For the latter, you are then close enough to get struck by lightning.
While lightning and flooding downpours are the greatest concerns from the thunderstorms through Labor Day, an isolated number producing damaging winds and hail cannot be ruled out.

Steamy air in place across the Northeast and the New York City area is setting the stage for the heavy thunderstorms.
A cold front will gradually sweep away the steamy air on Tuesday, leading to another shower or two this day and giving way to a dry, seasonable and less humid day for Wednesday.