Washington, D.C./ Weather & Environment
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Published on May 22, 2024
Severe Weather Alert Issued for New York and D.C. Shoreline with Thunderstorms and Coastal Flooding AdvisorySource: Unsplash/ Tasos Mansour

The National Weather Service warns New Yorkers of potential severe weather in the upcoming days, including thunderstorms and coastal flooding. A coastal flood advisory is currently in effect for areas along the District of Columbia shoreline until 10 AM today, with expected flood levels reaching one and a half feet above ground in low-lying areas due to tidal surges, according to a report by the National Weather Service.

The advisory from NWS, specifically targeting the District of Columbia, has been issued early this morning and warns of the flooding impact, including "flooding of lots, parks, and roads with only isolated road closures expected." The advisory cautions residents, noting "Tides one to one and a half feet above normal," with the next high tide expected at 8:04 AM and again at 8:35 PM. Although the floods imagine rising water levels, driving residents from their homes, this scenario is not anticipated given the limited scope of the warning.

In addition to the flood advisory, the National Weather Service has also released a hazardous weather outlook for the region, spanning from today through the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. The outlook includes "scattered to numerous thunderstorms" with the possibility of a few storms turning severe, bringing "damaging wind gusts and large hail." Commuters are advised to be prepared for unusual traffic patterns, as widely scattered thunderstorms this afternoon might disrupt normal flows, especially between 6 PM and 10 PM when a couple isolated severe thunderstorms are considered possible.

The weather outlook extends a warning for potentially hazardous conditions for area waterways, where thunderstorms could produce "hazardous winds and waves" later this afternoon and into the evening. Residents along the coastal area imagine their boats tossed by the impending weather, although proper preparations may prevent such incidents. Due to the unpredictable nature of the storms, "spotter activation may be needed at times," suggesting a level of vigilance for boaters and inhabitants of coastal zones.

With Memorial Day fast approaching, New Yorkers have been further advised to stay alert as the forecast for the holiday includes a 70% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Looking ahead to early next week, daily chances of thunderstorms continue with a 40% possibility each day. For the latest and most accurate information on the weather situation and safety advisories, the public is urged to follow updates issued by the National Weather Service.