NYC issues travel advisory for rain and thunderstorms Thursday

NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- New York City Emergency Management has issued a Travel Advisory for Thursday as periods of rain and thunderstorms could bring locally heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts to the city.

An AccuWeather Alert Day is in effect Thursday, and the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for New York City and much of the Tri-State area. Skies will feature mixed clouds with intervals of sunshine, but showers and thunderstorms could develop at any time during the day.

The greatest concern will be Thursday afternoon and evening, although some showers and thunderstorms could begin as early as Thursday morning, especially from New York City westward.

New York City is under a Flood Watch from noon until 11 p.m. on Thursday.

NYCEM is coordinating with the NWS and City agencies ahead of Thursday's weather to monitor the forecast and issue emergency weather updates through Notify NYC. The City's Flash Flood Plan was activated on Wednesday at 8:00 AM, and the Downed Tree Task Force has been placed on alert to support any potential tree removal operations.

New Yorkers should take the following precautions:

Allow extra time for travel Thursday afternoon and evening, and check weather and transit conditions before leaving.
Avoid flooded streets, rooms, subway stations, and other flooded areas. Never drive, bike, or walk through floodwater. Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide submerged hazards, openings, debris, and electrical dangers.
If you live in a basement apartment or other below-grade space, stay alert to changing conditions and be prepared to move to a higher floor or another safer location before flooding begins.
Do not wait for water to enter your home before acting if conditions are worsening.
If a Flash Flood Warning or other emergency instruction is issued for your area, follow official guidance immediately.
Keep phones, medical equipment, and other essential devices charged.
Check on family, friends, neighbors, older adults, and people who may need additional assistance before and during the storm.
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

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