AccuWeather Alert: Risk for flooding, damaging winds as storms approach

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

ByEyewitness News WABC logo

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Drenching downpours are expected to develop this afternoon across the Tri-State area.

Those heavier rains are raising the threat for flooding Monday afternoon and evening across the region.

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

These storms are capable of producing heavy rain along with embedded thunderstorms that may bring gusty winds and frequent lightning. The heaviest rainfall continues into Monday night before gradually tapering off into Tuesday morning.

The primary concern with this system is the potential for flooding due to periods of intense rainfall. Areas north of New York City could receive between one and two inches of rain, increasing the risk for localized flooding. South of the city, rainfall totals are expected to remain generally under an inch, though even there, downpours may still cause temporary issues.

The strongest storms are expected to stay mainly to the south of New York City, where scattered severe weather is possible. Even so, heavy rain remains the main hazard region-wide.

The timing of the storms could also impact plans, particularly for those attending the World Cup match in New Jersey Monday night. The match is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m., and thunderstorms may pass through the area during that time, so attendees should be prepared for changing conditions.

Despite the stormy weather, air quality on Monday is expected to remain good, with medium pollen levels and a UV index of three due to the increased cloud cover. High temperatures will be held down into the mid-70s because of the clouds and rainfall.

Conditions improve fairly quickly after the system exits. Showers will become more scattered overnight into Tuesday morning before ending altogether. By Tuesday afternoon, clouds begin to clear, setting the stage for a return to brighter weather. The middle of the week brings a return to sunny, seasonable conditions with highs climbing back into the 80s.

The break in the wet weather will be short-lived, however, as rain chances return on Friday. Even so, the upcoming weekend is expected to turn dry and sunny once again, offering another stretch of pleasant early summer weather.