Weather forecasts for this weekend are saying that the New York City area will experience heavy rainfall from Friday to Saturday morning (September 29 to 30).
A flash flood watch was in effect in the city and the New York tri-state area through 06:00 Saturday morning (10:00 UTC), with rainfall rates of 1-2 inches (25-50 mm) per hour expected at times. Some areas may also experience up to 8 inches (203 mm) of rainfall before the storms pass over.
As of noon Eastern Time (16:00 UTC), New York is in a state of emergency.
Flooding on a Friday
Heavy rain made the morning commute in New York worse than it already was, and it would be more widespread in the afternoon and evening.
According to CNBC, the MTA began making preparations for the storm on Thursday (September 28), and Chairman Janno Lieber said that the system "would be running" throughout the storm, but did add that interruptions were possible in particularly problematic spots that are prone to flooding. LIRR would have additional staffing on as well in order to quickly address any problems.
Read Also : Hong Kong Paralyzed After Experiencing Heaviest Rains in More Than a Century, Flooding the City's Streets
Precautions Galore
Meanwhile, the New York City Emergency Management Department issued a travel advisory for all of Friday and Saturday morning.
"All New Yorkers need to exercise caution," NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol said in a statement. "If you must travel, consider using public transportation and allow for extra travel time, and if you must drive, do not enter flooded roadways. If you live in a basement apartment, especially in a flood-prone area, be prepared to move to higher ground."
On the other hand, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy reminded residents to be careful and never drive or walk through flooded roads.
"I have directed my team to prepare for the storm and coordinate in advance with county and local officials," he said in a statement.
New York Public Schools also announced schools would remain open Friday and encouraged students and staff to allow for extra time.
