Today, NYC Emergency Management (NYCEM) issued a travel advisory ahead of a major round of severe weather that is expected to impact the city on Monday, June 22 and into early Tuesday. Moderate to heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong wind gusts and localized flash flooding could create hazardous travel conditions across the five boroughs, forecasters say.
What Weather Conditions Are Expected in NYC?
Late Monday morning, rain will begin to fall and get heavier through the afternoon, the National Weather Service said. Rainfall amounts of 0.75 to 2 inches are expected across much of the area with isolated totals of 4 inches possible in some neighborhoods. The heaviest storms could produce rates of 1.5 to 2 inches of rain per hour, leading to street flooding and reduced visibility for drivers.
Expect southeasterly winds at 10 to 15 mph with gusts to 30 mph. Isolated thunderstorms may produce stronger wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph that could blow down tree branches or blow unsecured outdoor items into roads.
Why Is Monday Expected to Be Especially Congested?
Monday is being declared a Gridlock Alert Day and traffic should be heavier than normal. Thousands of soccer fans are set to flood New Jersey for the evening rush hour for a World Cup match. Heavy rain, thunderstorms and more cars on the road could lead to serious delays on major highways, bridges and tunnels, city officials warned.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani told New Yorkers to get out early, use public transit if possible and avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the weather. No trip is worth jeopardizing personal safety when conditions “turn extreme,” the statement said.
How is NYC getting ready for the storm?
NYCEM has issued a Flash Flood Emergency and is working with city agencies, utility providers, transportation partners and the National Weather Service. Ahead of the heaviest rain, the Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Transportation have been clearing catch basins in flood-prone areas to help reduce street flooding.
The city also has the Downed Tree Task Force and Tow Truck Task Force on alert to respond quickly to downed trees, branches and stranded vehicles. Additional personnel have been assigned to NYCEM’s 24/7 Watch Command and will continue to monitor weather conditions throughout the duration of the event.”
What Safety Precautions Should New Yorkers Take?
Officials are advising residents to avoid flooded streets, warning that even shallow water can stop cars or hide dangers. If flooding starts, anyone who lives in a basement apartment should get out immediately and not even attempt to enter a flooded basement. Residents are also asked to secure loose items outside, keep cell phones charged, and stay informed via emergency alerts from Notify NYC.
If you hear thunder, get inside and stay out of the open until the storm is over. City leaders are asking everyone to plan for extra travel time tonight and take extra precautions as heavy rain is expected during the evening commute.
Shubham Rathore covers traffic, road conditions, driving rules, road safety, transportation updates, and issues affecting commuters and local drivers. His work focuses on practical road-related information, including traffic disruptions, travel advisories, safety guidance, and changes that impact daily movement.