NYC, most of Tri-State under Flood Watch for Tuesday

The New York City Department of Buildings advised property owners, contractors and others to take precautionary measures ahead of approaching storms.

"The New York City area may experience severe weather including heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential wind gusts of up to 55 miles per hour, starting today, Tuesday, July 28, and continuing later into the week. The heavy rain forecasted for the city could cause hazardous flash flooding. Accordingly, the Department of Buildings is reminding all builders, contractors, crane operators, and property owners to secure their construction sites, buildings, and equipment."

Recommended precautions include securing loose material and equipment at construction sites; securing scaffolding and sidewalk sheds; and storing loose tools, oil cans and other items in a secure toolbox.

Airlines in the Tri-State area continued to cancel hundreds of flights due to the approaching storms and expected flooding.

As of 10 a.m. Tuesday:

• LaGuardia - 201 flights cancelled, 37% of schedule

• Kennedy - 144 flights cancelled, 21% of schedule

• Newark - 72 flights cancelled, 12% of schedule

ABC News' Gio Benitez reports from the airport.

Our Brittany Bell has been keeping a close eye on the approaching storms all morning. Here's here latest take on what's ahead:

The New York City Office of Emergency Management issued a travel advisory on Tuesday due to the approaching weather.

"A travel advisory is in effect, starting at 8am Tuesday July, 28 to 8am Wednesday, July 29. We are urging people to plan extra travel time and be cautious while traveling. 2-4 inches of rain is likely, citywide with locally higher amounts. Rainfall rates might exceed 2 inches per hour and could lead to flooding in some areas. If you live in a basement apartment, be prepared to move to higher ground. Never drive or walk through flooded streets. If using public transportation do not enter flooded subway stations. Stay informed and up to date on weather updates. Sign up for @NotifyNYC at http://nyc.gov/notify or text 'notifynyc' to 692-692."

Mayor Mamdani also issued a message for New York City residents to prepare.