AccuWeather Alert: Heaviest rain N&E

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

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NEW YORK (WABC) -- A dangerous round of storms is expected to continue through the night and into the very early hours of Wednesday, bringing a significant flash flood threat across the region, according to meteorologist Lee Goldberg. Heavy downpours will pivot through the area overnight, with rainfall rates reaching 2 to 3 inches per hour during the early part of the evening.

While there remains a risk of severe thunderstorms capable of producing gusty winds, the primary concern is shifting toward flooding. Numerous flash flood warnings have already been issued across the area, and some communities could receive as much as 4 to 6 inches of rain. Forecasters note that the region is under a Level 3 out of 4 moderate risk for flash flooding, a designation that suggests numerous instances of flooding are likely.

Residents are being urged to stay off the roads through the evening, particularly north and west of New York City, where the heaviest downpours are expected. Rainfall totals are forecast to average between 2 and 4 inches across much of the area. New York City could end up on the lower end of those totals, while northern New Jersey, parts of the Hudson Valley, and portions of Connecticut may see the highest amounts, potentially reaching 5 to 6 inches.

The flooding threat will remain serious into the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday. Lingering standing water could still affect the Wednesday morning commute, and forecasters will be monitoring waterways for any signs of creeks, streams, or rivers rising out of their banks.

The storm system responsible for the wet weather is moving slowly and is expected to loop east of the region, allowing unsettled conditions to linger through the end of the workweek. While showers remain possible into Friday, periods of sunshine are also expected to break through the clouds.

For Wednesday, an AccuWeather Alert remains in effect, primarily because of lingering flooding concerns during the early morning hours. Showers and downpours may continue north and east of the city for early commuters, but conditions should gradually improve as the day progresses. Clouds are expected to give way to some sunshine, with only the possibility of a spotty shower or thunderstorm during the midday and afternoon hours. Widespread or continuous heavy rain is not anticipated during the day.

Wednesday night will remain mostly cloudy, with a few showers possible as the slow-moving low pressure system continues to influence the region.

Looking ahead, Thursday is expected to stay somewhat showery with temperatures around 75 degrees, though no significant weather impacts are currently anticipated. Friday should feature a better mix of sunshine and clouds, although an isolated afternoon shower cannot be ruled out.

The first day of August on Saturday appears to be the most favorable day in the seven-day forecast, with the greatest chance for sunshine and dry weather. Sunday should remain generally pleasant, though increasing clouds may lead to an afternoon thunderstorm. Another weather system is expected to arrive early next week. While it is not forecast to be as intense as the current setup, it may stall or move slowly enough to bring several additional days of shower chances to the region.