New York City officials issued a weather alert for Monday, warning that heavy rainfall, strong winds and thunderstorms could hit the city.
Rain is expected to begin late Sunday evening and continue overnight into the Monday morning commute, according to the National Weather Service.
“Give yourself a little bit more time to get to work, as people will slow down, which is good, but it’ll take longer to get to work,” National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Pollina said in an interview. “Possibly even into the Monday evening commute it may take a little bit longer to get home.”
South to southeast winds are expected to increase on Monday, with sustained winds around 15 to 22 miles per hour and gusts that could reach up to 55 miles per hour by the evening.
According to the city’s Emergency Management Department, rainfall totals across New York City are expected to range from 1 to 1.1 inches, with localized amounts up to about 1.25 inches where thunderstorms develop.
Forecasters said localized flooding in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage is the main concern. While the risk of severe weather remains low, the city has activated its Flash Flood Emergency Plan.
“New York City is bracing for rain, thunderstorms, and high winds on Monday,” NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Christina Farrell said in a statement. “We urge New Yorkers to prepare for potential impacts, allow extra travel time, and consider using public transportation.”
The strongest storms are expected Monday evening as the cold front moves through the region. Rain and storms are forecast to taper off early Tuesday morning.
