N.Y. Gov. Hochul warns residents of winter storm with ‘substantial flooding,’ ‘gale force winds’

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — On the heels of last weekend’s mix of snow and rain, another substantial storm is headed for New York Tuesday into Wednesday, prompting Gov. Kathy Hochul to take action.

In urging New Yorkers to prepare for the imminent storm threat, Hochul warned of the hazardous conditions expected to batter New York state. According to a release from the governor’s office, heavy rain is predicted to contribute to snow melt and flooding in areas south of the Capital Region, particularly portions of the Hudson Valley which saw up to 18 inches of snowfall from the last system. Additionally, thanks to the anticipated wind gusts of 50-60 mph, there is a considerable risk of power outages across New York City, Long Island, Western New York, Central New York and the North Country, as detailed in the release.

“After the weekend weather brought snow across our state, a new storm threatens to cause substantial flooding and gale force winds — posing a risk of power outages and creating unsafe travel conditions,” Hochul said. “I have directed state agencies to monitor the storm closely as it unfolds, and they are prepared to work with our local partners as needed. I ask all New Yorkers to please take caution and keep track of weather and travel information in your area.”

Hochul delivered stern remarks Monday night in an update on the approaching storm.

In drawing a comparison to emphasize the gravity of the situation, Hochul hearkened back to storms with similar odds of producing flash floods.

“The risk is significant, parts of the Hudson Valley will have a 70% chance of flash flooding,” Hochul said. “If that doesn’t sound serious, remember last year when we saw the 1,000-year flooding event in Highland Falls? That was a 70% chance of flash flooding. Remember when we saw the flash flooding in September in New York City? That also had a 70% chance of flash flooding. So, that’s the risk level we’re dealing with right now.”

Looking back to the September flooding in NYC, Staten Island saw just under 2 inches of rain over the course of a day, according to the Advance/SILive.com weather station. Meanwhile, Tuesday’s storm is forecast to bring more than 2 inches to Staten Island and the surrounding area, with some parts of the city slated to receive nearly 2.5 inches of rain, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

While much of the concern lies further north in Hudson Valley, the combination of heavy rain and high winds has raised concerns over coastal flooding in New York City.

“Remember, we’re expecting up to four inches of rain tomorrow,” Hochul said. “So, combining that with the multiple inches of melted snow, we’re talking about a very dangerous combination. Let me be clear, this will be an emergency, it will be serious, and we’re urging all New Yorkers to exercise extreme caution at this time.”

NYC STORM WARNINGS, ALERTS

Joining Hochul in highlighting the approaching conditions is the New York City Emergency Management Department, which issued a travel advisory on Monday which will remain in effect from Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning.

“More inclement weather is expected to hit New York City tomorrow night, bringing with it heavy rains, strong winds, and the potential for flooding,” said Mayor Eric Adams. “Our city government is prepared to respond to whatever comes our way, but residents should also take the necessary precautions to stay safe and protect their belongings. I encourage all New Yorkers to sign up for Notify NYC to get the latest information and closely monitor the forecast as this storm approaches.”

A flood watch has been issued citywide by the NWS from 6 p.m. Tuesday to noon on Wednesday. Light rain is forecast to find city streets Tuesday afternoon with heavy rain developing in the evening and continuing overnight into early Wednesday morning. The heaviest precipitation is expected between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. The weather outlook calls for citywide rainfall amounts of 2 to 3 inches at rates of about 0.5 inch/hour. A rising high tide Tuesday evening in New York Harbor and Jamaica Bay could coincide with heavy rain, resulting in compound flooding along shoreline roadways prone to flooding.

The NWS also issued a high wind warning citywide from 6 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday. Southeast winds are expected to rest in the range of 25-35 mph with gusts peaking around 70 mph. The most powerful winds will come in around 10 p.m. and last until about 3 a.m.

Staten Island and much of the city, including Manhattan, and Brooklyn, are also indicated in areas designated with a coastal flood advisory. The advisory, which is in effect from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. Wednesday, warns of 1 to 2 feet of inundation above ground level in vulnerable areas near the waterfront and shoreline, as reported by the NWS.