NYCEM ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY AHEAD OF POTENTIAL SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS THIS WEEKEND

NEW YORK — New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) has issued a travel advisory for Saturday, June 6 to Sunday, June 7. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts heavy rain, gusty winds and potential severe thunderstorms in New York City over the weekend, with the greatest potential for impacts occurring between 5:00 p.m. Saturday and 2:00 a.m. Sunday.

“Staying safe in heavy rains starts before the first drop hits,” said Mayor Mamdani. “We’re expecting quite a bit of rainfall, wind, and potentially some thunderstorms this weekend. New Yorkers should prepare now by planning ahead, exercising caution while traveling, and signing up for Notify NYC. As always, check in on your neighbors and make sure anyone you know in a basement apartment is taking this risk of heavy rain seriously.”

“While we're expecting much of Saturday to remain dry, New Yorkers should be prepared for heavy rain and thunderstorms Saturday evening into early Sunday morning,” said NYCEM Commissioner Christina Farrell. “Although the forecast may still change, residents should monitor weather conditions, allow for extra travel time if needed, avoid flooded roadways and subscribe to Notify NYC for updates.”

Rainfall rates are expected to remain below 0.2 inches per hour for most of the event but could briefly reach up to 2 inches per hour during heavier downpours. Total rainfall is expected to range from 0.25 to 1.5 inches. Widespread nuisance flooding is possible, particularly in low-lying and poor-drainage areas, with a low risk of localized flash flooding near the heaviest rainfall. Ponding on roadways may develop during periods of intense rain and in locations where storm drains are clogged.

In addition to heavy rain, gusty winds are expected Saturday. Sustained winds of 10 to 20 mph are forecast during the day, with stronger gusts possible Saturday evening and overnight as thunderstorms move through the area. Wind gusts could reach 65 mph in some locations.

Scattered light rain may linger through Sunday morning, with another round of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms possible Sunday afternoon and evening.

The Air Quality Index is expected to 115 on Saturday, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Exposure to poor air quality can increase respiratory stress, especially for people with asthma or allergies.

During flash flood threats, NYCEM activates the city’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan, coordinating closely with NWS, city and state agencies, utility providers and private sector partners. This proactive approach includes pre-storm actions such as targeted inspection and clearing of catch basins in flood-prone areas by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Transportation to help reduce street flooding before heavy rain begins. Coordinated interagency calls ensure partners are briefed on emerging risks and prepared to escalate response operations as needed, while specialized emergency assets and response teams remain on standby for rapid deployment. NYCEM’s 24/7 Watch Command continuously monitors weather conditions and tracks developing systems in real time.

New Yorkers should allow extra travel time during periods of heavy rain, especially Saturday evening. Avoid driving through flooded streets. Even shallow water can stall vehicles. Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture or trash bins before winds increase. If thunder is heard, move indoors and stay away from open areas. Clear debris from nearby storm drains if it is safe to do so to help reduce street flooding. Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, umbrellas, and trash bins before winds increase.

Stay informed by checking the forecast and signing up for emergency alerts at nyc.gov/notifynyc. Have a plan and “Be Ready” for thunderstorms and rainfall by visiting nyc.gov/beready.

NYCEM recommends the following preparedness actions for New Yorkers in coastal flood-prone regions and low-lying areas:

Communication and Information:

Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts through various channels, including Notify NYC, available in 13 different languages, with a special sub-group dedicated to Basement Apartment Dwellers. Subscribe to Notify NYC at NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, download the app in your phone's app store, or dial 311. Keep a battery-powered radio ready for timely updates, particularly if power outages are expected.

Storm Drains and Local Warnings:

If it's safe to do so, check and clear any nearby storm drains to help manage water runoff and lessen the chances of localized flooding. Pay attention to localized warnings, especially those pertaining to rip currents and high waves.

Prepare for Outages:

To gear up for potential power disruptions, keep your cell phones charged, stock up on supplies. If power outages are predicted, consider adjusting your refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Ensure that flashlights and battery-operated radios or TVs are functional, keeping extra batteries on hand. If you rely on Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and lose power, dial 911 for immediate assistance, and remember never to use generators indoors. Check on vulnerable individuals in your community, such as older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions and assist them in their preparations.

For the latest updates sign up for emergency alerts by visiting the Notify NYC page, texting 'NotifyNYC' to 692-692 or call 311.

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