Mayor Mamdani advised New Yorkers to take extra precautions this weekend as an approaching nor’easter threatens to inundate New York City with heavy rain and wind gusts.
Beginning at 2 p.m. Friday and extending through Sunday morning, the travel advisory City Hall released warns New Yorkers that the storm is expected to bring three inches of rain, coastal flooding, and wind gusts of up to 50 mph that could send tree limbs and power lines crashing down, officials said.
“The forecast path of this storm has moved closer to our city, and it is bringing more rain and stronger winds with it,” Mayor Mamdani said. “City workers are clearing catch basins, preparing for downed trees and positioning emergency resources in areas that could see coastal flooding.”
“If you’re traveling this weekend, give yourself extra time, check your train, ferry or flight before you head out and stay off low-lying coastal roads around high tide,” Mamdani said.
Rain is expected to begin falling across the five boroughs Friday evening, but will intensify throughout the weekend, with the heaviest rain expected Saturday morning. Localized rainfall could total up to five inches.
Winds will be strongest on bridges, elevated roadways, and exposed coastal areas. Travelers should be wary of unexpected obstacles littering the roadway as high winds cause trees and power lines to fall.
Coastal flooding is expected during high tides on Friday evening and Saturday morning. Flooding may damage vehicles parked in flood-prone areas.
Anyone living in a basement or ground-floor apartment should have an escape plan that includes multiple exits and be prepared to move as flood conditions worsen.
Drivers should under no circumstances attempt to take their vehicles through floodwaters, the city noted.