NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) — New Yorkers heading home from their commute this afternoon should prepare for heavy downpours.
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for all five boroughs, placing the city under a slight risk level 2 out of 4 for excessive rainfall, with isolated to scattered flash flooding possible.
The heaviest rain is expected between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. The flood watch remains in effect until 2 a.m.
New York City Emergency Management issued a weather alert and activated the city’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan as the evening commute is expected to be impacted.
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or trapped by rising water.
Once you leave a flooded area, do not go back. Floodwater can rise in minutes. What looked safe when you left may not be safe when you return. Wait until officials confirm it is clear.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater – no matter how shallow it looks. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet. Just 1 foot of water can sweep away a car. Water on streets can conceal open drains, downed power lines, and uneven surfaces.
Never drive through flooded roads or underpasses. Turn around and find another route. Never drive around barricades – they are there for your safety.
Avoid entering flooded subway stations. If you are already underground, follow MTA guidance and move to street level if water is entering the station. During prolonged rainfall, station and track flooding can develop gradually – check MTA alerts before traveling.
Do not touch floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or debris, and it may carry electrical current from downed lines or submerged equipment.
Do not touch electrical equipment or appliances if you or the equipment are wet.
For a full list of the city’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan, click here.
Nicole Alarcon is an award-winning digital content producer. She has covered local news for the tri-state area since 2021. She joined PIX11 News in 2026. See more of her work here.
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