Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare for heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding beginning overnight Thursday and continuing through Friday night in the Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island regions. The current forecast predicts a widespread two to three inches of rain and locally heavy rainfall of five inches or more is possible, with rainfall rates reaching one inch per hour. These conditions may cause flash flooding in low-lying, flood-prone areas and areas that recently experienced heavy rainfall. In the event of flash flooding, commutes would be impacted on Friday. Governor Hochul urged New Yorkers to pay close attention to the forecast and changing conditions, and her administration stands ready to respond to extreme weather impacts in affected areas.
“With a chance of heavy rain tonight and tomorrow across New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley, we’re keeping a close eye on potential flash flooding,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m directing state agencies to prepare response assets and be ready to assist our partners at the local level if they need support. I encourage anyone expected to receive heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours to stay vigilant, keep a close eye on the forecast, and heed any emergency orders from officials if necessary.”
The National Weather Services has issued a Flood Watch that is set to go into effect overnight Thursday into late Friday evening for parts of the New York City, Long Island and Hudson Valley regions. For a complete listing of weather alerts and forecasts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov. New Yorkers are encouraged to sign up for NY Alert, the State’s free emergency alert system, at alert.ny.gov. County-by-county emergency information can be pushed by text or email.
New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “New York City, Long Island, and the lower Hudson Valley will see significant rain tonight into Friday night. Parts of these regions may see five or more inches of rain which could lead to flash flooding. My staff is communicating with weather experts and our emergency management partners about the impacts from this storm. We are prepared to respond and assist our local partners to keep New Yorkers safe in the event of a flash flood emergency.”
Heavy rainfall & potential flash flooding is beginning tonight & continuing through tomorrow night in the Hudson Valley, in New York City, & on Long Island.
Parts of these areas are expecting five or more inches of rain. It’s important to take steps now to stay safe. pic.twitter.com/cbJYAdTcnL
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) September 28, 2023
A Flood Watch is in effect for Long Island tomorrow. Expect periods of heavy rainfall through the day, ending by Saturday morning. Some spots could see up to 5" of rain. @News12LI pic.twitter.com/28dTTC6OC6
— Samantha Augeri (@SamanthaAugeri) September 28, 2023
