AccuWeather Alert: Risk for flooding, damaging winds from storms

AccuWeather forecast for NYC, New York, New Jersey and Connecticut

ByEyewitness News WABC logo

NEW YORK (WABC) -- An unsettled stretch of weather is creating a rough start to the week, with an AccuWeather Alert in effect as strong storms and heavy rain move through the region Monday evening.

Meteorologist Dani Beckstrom warns that the biggest concern isn't just thunder and lightning, but the intensity of the rainfall itself, which could trigger localized flooding. Downpours are expected to be heavy at times, overwhelming poor drainage areas and raising the risk for flash flooding, particularly in low-lying spots.

Alongside the rain, some storms could also produce gusty winds strong enough to cause isolated damage, prompting a reminder for residents to stay weather-aware and have alerts enabled if they are traveling or outdoors.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for central and southern New Jersey until 9:00 p.m.

Steadier showers will persist into early Tuesday. The morning commute is likely to be wet and sluggish, with rain continuing through much of the morning and into midday. While the heaviest activity will have passed, lingering drizzle and cloud cover will keep conditions damp for a good portion of the day.

Relief begins to arrive later Tuesday as the system finally pulls away. Skies will start to clear by midday, and by Tuesday night, calmer and more comfortable conditions take hold. Although much of Tuesday's daylight hours will be gray and occasionally drizzly, the improving trend sets the stage for a much more pleasant midweek turnaround.

By Wednesday, the weather takes a notable turn for the better, with sunshine returning and humidity levels dropping. Temperatures rebound into the mid-80s, offering warm but more comfortable conditions that are expected to linger into Thursday. A stray storm can't be ruled out in some western suburbs on Thursday, but most locations should stay dry.

Rain chances begin to creep back into the forecast on Friday, ahead of what looks to be another warm and mainly dry weekend.