As New York City faces another round of strong storms, city officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions ahead of potential flash flooding on Thursday.
Chief Meteorologist Lee Goldberg has indicated a rare moderate risk of flash flooding in the Tri-State area, with forecasts predicting one to three inches of rain, and the possibility of locally receiving up to five inches.
The intense weather is expected to arrive around noon, with heavy rain and thunderstorms impacting the I-95 corridor from New York City to Washington D.C. throughout the afternoon and evening.
Travel advisories are in place, recommending that New Yorkers avoid travel from Thursday afternoon through Friday afternoon, as the storms could significantly disrupt the commute.
Recent memories of heavy rain flooding the No. 1 subway station at the 28th Street station still linger, as water poured in during a previous flash flood warning just a few weeks ago.
As the MTA prepares for the expected deluge, they are implementing several safety measures to protect the subway infrastructure from flooding.
Eric Wilson, the MTA’s VP of Climate Resistance and Sustainability, highlighted the importance of elevated steps as part of ongoing station upgrades and flood mitigation efforts.
These slight elevations, though minor, serve as a crucial barrier, preventing stormwater from overflowing onto sidewalks and flowing into subway stations.
Additionally, there are enhanced drainage systems designed to redirect water away from subway areas.
Manhole covers at the 28th Street station have also been welded shut to prevent water from the street entering the subway system during heavy rains.
A subway rider expressed concern over the potential for flash flooding to disrupt their commute once again.
The MTA emphasizes the challenges of predicting the intensity of rainstorms, yet they are committed to enhancing mitigation efforts in light of the upcoming storm.
Alongside these measures, city officials recommend several safety actions residents should take: relocate from basements or regularly flooded homes to safer locations when flooding seems imminent.
Residents are advised to stay vigilantly tuned to weather alerts and remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoiding windows due to the risk of flying debris and downed trees.
If power lines come down, they should be treated as live wires and reported immediately to emergency services.
Vehicles located in flood-prone areas should be moved to higher ground to avoid damage.
Additionally, it is wise to clear debris from gutters and drains near homes to minimize the risk of localized flooding.
The broader context of severe weather concerns also includes recent earthquake and tsunami warnings worldwide.
For a detailed examination of the science behind these increasingly extreme weather events, viewers are encouraged to tune in to “Preparing For Extremes” on Eyewitness News at 5:30 p.m. Thursday.
As storms approach, the message is clear: prepare, stay informed, and prioritize safety.
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