Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani and New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) are monitoring a nor'easter expected to pass offshore this weekend, bringing gusty winds, periods of rain and coastal flooding to New York City while keeping the storm's heaviest rain east of the city.
Winds are expected to increase late Friday into Saturday morning, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph. Rain is expected from Friday afternoon through Sunday, with total rainfall of approximately 1 to 1.5 inches over that period. Coastal neighborhoods may experience flooding during high tides, particularly Friday evening and Saturday morning. Conditions are expected to improve Saturday night into Sunday as the storm moves farther offshore.
"While this storm is expected to pass offshore and keep the heaviest rain east of New York City, New Yorkers should still prepare for gusty winds, rain and coastal flooding this weekend," said Mayor Mamdani. "If you live near the coast, move your car to higher ground or away from streets that regularly flood, and secure anything outside that could be picked up by strong winds. Storm tracks can change, so stay informed and take the simple steps that can keep you and your neighbors safe. For emergency alerts, text NOTIFYNYC to 692-692."
"We're keeping a close eye on the Friday evening and Saturday morning high tides, which could bring flooding to low-lying areas on Staten Island's eastern shore, in the Rockaways and around Jamaica Bay," said NYCEM Commissioner Christina Farrell. "Winds will pick up late Friday, so bring in or tie down anything outside before then, and if you're traveling this weekend, allow extra time and watch for ponding on roads. Never drive or walk through floodwater, and never go around traffic barricades. We're working with the National Weather Service and our partner agencies every day, and we'll keep New Yorkers updated."
A high risk of rip currents at area beaches is expected to continue through at least Saturday. Rough surf could cause some beach erosion, though erosion is more likely on Long Island than at New York City beaches. New Yorkers are reminded that City beaches officially closed for the season on Sunday, September 13. Swimming is no longer permitted at public beaches because lifeguards are not on duty.
NYCEM has been closely monitoring the storm and holding daily briefings with the National Weather Service (NWS) and City agencies to review the latest forecast and coordinate preparations.
Storm tracks can change. New Yorkers should take steps to prepare now:
- If you park in a coastal area that frequently floods, move your car to higher ground before Thursday evening's high tide.
- Secure outdoor items such as furniture, decorations, grills and garbage containers, including anything on balconies, rooftops and patios.
- Clear debris from drains, gutters and stairwells around your home so water can flow freely.
- If you live in a basement or ground-floor apartment in a low-lying area, know more than one way out and make sure exits are clear. If water begins to enter, move to a higher floor. Never remain in or re-enter a flooded basement.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater, no matter how shallow it looks. Six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, and one foot of water can sweep away a car.
- Never drive around traffic barricades. They are there for your safety.
- Avoid touching floodwater, which may contain sewage, chemicals or debris.
- Report nonemergency issues to 311 and call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
- If you rely on powered medical equipment, register with your utility provider and keep backup batteries charged.
- Check on neighbors who may need extra help, especially older adults, people with disabilities and anyone in a basement or low-lying home in a coastal area.
Sign up for Notify NYC, the City's free emergency alert system, by texting NOTIFYNYC to 692-692 or visiting nyc.gov/notifynyc
