NEW YORK — The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for parts of NYC and the tri-state area Monday.
The warning was first expected to last through 11:15 a.m., but was later extended through 2:15 p.m.
The initial warning was issued for NYC; Orange, Richmond, Kings and Rockland counties in southeastern New York; and Hudson, Passaic, Union, Bergen and Essex counties in northeastern New Jersey. The extended warning covers much of the same area.
An inch to an inch and a half of rain fell in parts of the tri-state area as of 7:18 a.m., and additional rainfall amounts of an inch to 2 inches are possible in the areas under the warning, according to the weather service.
By 9:45 a.m. 1.68 inches was recorded in Central Park, as much as 2.98 inches in Weehawken and 3 inches in Harrison, New Jersey.
The storm was initially forecast to hit hardest in the late morning through noon.
Flash flood warnings are issued when the weather service believes flooding is imminent or already occurring.
The warning advises that people avoid walking or driving through flood waters, and move immediately to higher ground when necessary. Those living near creeks or streams should take immediate precautions to protect their lives and property, according to the weather service.
Images on social media show flooded, seemingly impassable roadways, and indoor subway stations that almost appear outdoors as water pours from the ceiling and down staircases.
Rain started early and is expected to remain heavy through the morning commute before it begins to break up during the afternoon hours. Sustained winds of 18 to 20 mph, with gusts of 25 to 39 are expected, making umbrellas almost useless as rain whips sideways.
The weather is nothing like the clear skies and warm temperatures enjoyed by those in the area Friday and Saturday, but highs have picked up since Sunday’s temperature drop, when highs didn’t emerge from the 40s.
Highs Monday are expected to reach 60 degrees. Tuesday will be cooler, with highs closer to 50 degrees. More isolated showers are also expected.
