Wet weather reports are likely to keep locals and tourists off the sand and out of the water in New York City this holiday weekend.
“I think people want to celebrate, it’s been a long winter in New York,” said Sean Aiken, a Rockaway business owner.
What You Need To Know
Wet weather reports are likely to keep locals and tourists off the sand and out of the water in New York City this holiday weekend
The weekend is on track to be the wettest Memorial Day weekend since 1948
The city’s Department of Emergency Management put out a warning for high rip currents and surfing conditions in effect through Sunday night
“You can’t help Mother Nature,” added Steve, a retired operating engineer.
The weekend is on track to be the wettest Memorial Day weekend since 1948, and with showers expected in the evening and throughout Sunday, some are making other plans.
“Hanging out with family. Bike rides. It’s kind of nice actually, it’s quiet,” said Noelle, a Rockaway native.
“I think better days are coming for the Rockaways,” added Dani, another resident.
Though it’s the first weekend with lifeguards bundled in sweatpants and raincoats on duty, the city’s Department of Emergency Management put out a warning for high rip currents and surfing conditions in effect through Sunday night.
Although NY1 spotted some surfers set on braving the conditions.
“It’s just so dangerous. And we are always constantly losing people here because of that, so I try my best not to if you go in you go in, but don’t go deep,” said Priscilla, a local.
But for locals like Sean Aiken, who owns Seany Pizza at the Beach 97th Concessions, said he’ll be tossing dough rain or shine.
“I’m going to open today, regardless of the possible rain,” he told NY1.
Others made sure to get their coffee and bagels next to the updated Rockaway Hotel on Beach 108th Street.
“This whole block has changed over the last few years, tremendous talent just keeps showing up,” said Shane, “Mike’s Deli, unbelievable Italian heroes, Mike, got the Italian background, he knows what he’s doing over there.”
Steve hoisted high eight American flags before the rain started, honoring the lives of deceased men and women who served in the U.S. military.
“This is our country. And the American flag, to me, is vital, people died over the American flag, so the community is more than willing to chip in,” he told NY1.
Rockaway is a patriotic peninsula, home to many police officers and firefighters.
Steve said he plans on adding special American flags for the July 4 celebration of the U.S.’s 250th birthday.
“We put them up every year and we’re proud to do it,” he explained.
Guards will be on duty every day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. through September 13. Swimmers will also need to watch out for prohibited zones marked with red flags.