3-06-2024 10:32am

Long Island Braces for Wednesday Flood Watch.

Samantha Hespos Editor

Anticipated rainfall for the entire Long Island area is projected to range between 2 to 3 inches, with the potential for even higher accumulations.

The Long Island region in New York is bracing for a significant weather event as Mother Nature is poised to unleash heavy rainfall on Wednesday. Anticipated meteorological conditions suggest a substantial amount of precipitation, creating the potential for noteworthy impacts across the area. Residents and authorities are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions in response to this forecasted bout of inclement weather, ensuring preparedness for possible challenges posed by the impending heavy rain on Wednesday in Long Island.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning in anticipation of a coastal low, forecasted to bring moderate to heavy rainfall from Wednesday night through Thursday morning. A total accumulation of 2 to 3 inches is expected, with the possibility of higher totals, prompting heightened alertness for potential flooding conditions in the affected areas.

Anticipate peak rainfall rates reaching approximately 1 inch per hour during the timeframe from 6 p.m. on Wednesday to 3 a.m. on Thursday.

Wednesday night into Thursday is expected to bring widespread minor urban and poor drainage flooding, as indicated by the National Weather Service (NWS). Additionally, there is a possibility of minor flooding along quick-responding small rivers, streams, and creeks. The potential for flash flooding is localized, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and precautionary measures in the affected areas.

As per the National Weather Service (NWS), the current soil moisture levels are elevated, ranging between 60 to 80 percent above normal. Moreover, a majority of area rivers and streams are experiencing flows above, and in some cases, much above normal. The NWS emphasizes that these conditions facilitate rapid runoff and an increased risk of flooding. They caution that with each successive rain event, soil moisture and stream flows are likely to rise, intensifying the threat of urban and river flooding in the affected areas.

The weekend on Long Island may see additional rainfall, with the National Weather Service (NWS) suggesting a potential accumulation of 1 to 2 inches. Concurrently, minor coastal flooding is anticipated during high tide periods from Thursday night into the weekend, according to the NWS. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared for potential impacts during this timeframe.