Heavy rain, potential flooding in store for NYC | Weather alerts, timeline

Published August 20, 2026 7:17 AM EDT

A Flood Watch was issued for much of the Tri-State Area with heavy downpours and potentially severe thunderstorms in Thursday's forecast for NYC and NJ.

NYC weather forecast, flood watch

What we know:

The National Weather Service expanded the flood watch to New York City, Westchester, Rockland, Fairfield, western Long Island, and New Jersey from 2 p.m. Thursday until 2 a.m. Friday. 

What's the weather for today?

Timeline:

Scattered showers will start developing in the Hudson Valley around noon, progressing into downpours and possibly severe thunderstorms that will make for a messy afternoon and evening commute across the region. 

Flash flooding and potentially damaging wind gusts will be on the table throughout. 

Peak rainfall rates could reach around 2 inches per hour, with the greatest flash flood threat coming between 6 p.m. and midnight, the NWS said. The threat could linger on Long Island. 

Weather radar NYC

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Weather in NYC tomorrow, weekend forecast

What's next:

While the bulk of Thursday's severe weather should clear out by 10 p.m., the flood risk will continue for at least a few more hours. Friday is set up to be a beautiful day with highs in the low 80s, but the rain threat returns Saturday and Sunday. 

The Source: This article includes information from the National Weather Service. 

New York CitySevere Weather