NEW YORK (WABC) -- Much of New Jersey and the Catskills are drying out Wednesday morning after heavy rain soaked the region, but flooding concerns remain for parts of the Tri-State area. Flooding downpours are expected to continue through sunrise across Long Island, the Hudson Valley and Connecticut, where an AccuWeather Alert remains in effect and a Flood Watch continues.
The steady rain will gradually taper to scattered showers this afternoon, with a few breaks of sunshine possible and highs reaching the upper 70s.
Looking ahead, a few showers are possible Thursday, while Friday brings more sunshine and only the chance of a stray thunderstorm.
Check here for the latest watches and warnings from the National Weather Service
The weekend looks mostly dry, with the next chance for storms arriving late Sunday. Partly cloudy skies and an isolated shower or thunderstorm are possible Monday and Tuesday.
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An AccuWeather Alert is in effect as a dangerous setup could bring hours of flooding downpours to the Tri-State later today into Wednesday morning. Some areas could see 2 to 5 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts and rainfall rates of up to 2 to 3 inches per hour. If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around, don't drown.
Airlines starting the day with cancellations on Tuesday, anticipating storms that will disrupt their schedules.
So far:
Kennedy: 117 flights cancelled, 17% of schedule
LaGuardia: 109 flights cancelled, 20% of schedule
Newark: 61 flights cancelled, 10% of schedule
Communities across New Jersey are dealing with the aftermath of Monday night's powerful storms, which brought heavy rain, flash flooding, lightning and hail.
In Hawthorne, the fire department responded to more than 20 calls for service, including 17 water rescues, after floodwaters submerged portions of Route 208. At least five people were also rescued from stranded vehicles in River Edge.
In Ridgewood, officials said lightning struck a building, blowing out an electric meter and sparking a two-alarm fire. Hail was also reported in Franklin Lakes and Edison.
While the heaviest rain has moved out, additional showers and thunderstorms are expected Tuesday afternoon and evening. Forecasters warn another round of heavy downpours could lead to localized flooding, so drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways.
Governor Kathy Hochul urged New Yorkers to exercise caution ahead of a storm forecast to bring heavy rain throughout the state Tuesday and Wednesday with flash flooding likely.
Beginning Tuesday, a weather system will stall over the state bringing prolonged rain, thunderstorms and flash flooding. The Mid-Hudson, New York City and Long Island regions have a Moderate or 40 to 70 percent chance for flash flooding, while the Capital Region and Mohawk Valley have a Slight risk or 15 to 40 percent chance. The rest of the state has a Marginal flash flood risk or 5 to 15 percent chance. Widespread rainfall totals of two to five inches are likely, with localized peak totals of six inches of rainfall possible. Areas across the Catskills could see totals of six to eight inches of rainfall through Wednesday morning. With heavy rain, scattered flash flooding is likely, which will make travel hazardous due to ponding water and reduced visibility.
"New York State will be experiencing a prolonged rain event beginning Tuesday that will bring heavy rains and cause flash flooding - New Yorkers should stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution," Governor Hochul said. "As State agencies are ready and mobilized to keep New Yorkers safe, it is important for everyone to do their part by monitoring your local forecast and when in doubt, turn around, don't drown."
Before and During the Storm
Stay Informed: Monitor your local weather forecast and follow any warnings that may be broadcast.
Follow Instructions from Local Officials: If you are advised by emergency officials to take immediate action such as evacuation, do not wait - follow all orders promptly.
Do Not Walk, Swim or Drive Through Floodwaters: One foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. If you have doubts, remember: "Turn Around, Don't Drown!"
Know your evacuation route and how to get to higher ground.
Know your area's type of flood risk - visit FEMA's Flood Map Service Center.
Have a flood emergency plan in place that includes considerations for your children, pets and neighbors.
Have an emergency go bag ready to grab for you, your family and your pets that includes any medications you may need.
Check in with elderly neighbors or those who may have mobility issues.
Do not touch downed power lines.
Keep your phone charged.
Keep a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.
After Flood Waters Have Receded
Wait until an area has been declared safe before entering. Be careful driving, since roads may be damaged and power lines may be down.
If your home or apartment has been flooded, DO NOT turn on electrical appliances until an electrician has checked the system and appliances.
Throw out any medicine or food that may have had contact with flood waters.
Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days.
Do not touch downed power lines.
For more preparedness information and safety tips from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, visit dhses.ny.gov. The National Weather Service website also includes Flood Safety Tips.
