Storms Begin in Upstate NY, Threatening Flash Flooding and Thunderstorms
Storms have begun in Upstate NY and are threatening flash flooding and additional thunderstorms, the National Weather Service said. A broad set of storm systems will affect the region over the next several days.
Immediate flood and rainfall concerns
The first round of rain this morning could produce flash flooding from Buffalo to Syracuse. Rainfall rates may exceed 1 inch per hour in intense cells.
Repeated storms could deposit as much as 3 inches in some locations today. Across the Finger Lakes and Central New York, 2 to 3 inches are expected through Thursday morning.
Areas under watches and other advisories
All of Upstate New York west of the Capital Region is under a flood watch through at least Wednesday night. A flood watch indicates conditions are favorable for flooding to develop.
Additionally, some counties remain under winter weather advisories. Local maps show those counties separately highlighted by weather authorities.
Tug Hill Plateau and snowmelt impacts
Leftover snow on the Tug Hill Plateau will add runoff to streams and rivers. That extra water raises the risk of rises on creeks and local waterways.
Storm dynamics and severe threat
There is a limited chance storms could produce damaging wind gusts. That threat depends on whether clouds break and allow daytime heating to destabilize the atmosphere.
Forecasters note it is hard to predict exactly where the heaviest storms will form. Multiple systems stacking over sensitive watersheds increases flood potential.
Timing, temperatures and outlook
Storms will continue through the weekend, keeping flooding odds elevated as saturated ground receives more rain. The southern system pushing the moisture north will also transport milder air into the region.
Highs are expected in the upper 60s to low 70s for much of the week. Residents should monitor forecast updates and plan accordingly.
What residents should do
- Monitor local forecasts from the National Weather Service and Filmogaz.com for updates.
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways and move vehicles away from low-lying areas.
- Be prepared for repeated rounds of rain and localized flash flooding.
