New York City is waking up to clear skies and temperatures around 72 degrees Thursday, but the quiet start will not last. Showers could begin between 8 and 11 a.m., with thunderstorms becoming more likely from late morning through the afternoon. The biggest concern is a wetter, stormier stretch from about 2 to 5 p.m., when downpours could arrive quickly.
Flood Watch Runs Through Thursday Night
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island from noon through 11 p.m. Thursday. Forecasters expect roughly 1 to 1.5 inches of rain in the watch area, with isolated totals near 3 inches possible and low-lying streets, underpasses and poor-drainage areas most vulnerable, according to the National Weather Service forecast.
Thursday’s high is expected to reach about 81 degrees, though temperatures may fall into the upper 70s during the afternoon as clouds and rain build. Southerly winds will run 7 to 14 mph, with stronger gusts possible in thunderstorms, and the weather service says isolated strong to severe storms could bring damaging winds or a tornado, particularly north and west of the city.
Beachgoers Face Rougher Water
Atlantic-facing beaches are under a high risk of rip currents through Thursday evening. South winds near 15 to 20 mph and a building southeast swell could make swimming hazardous, so anyone heading to the beach should stay near lifeguards and take the water conditions seriously.
Heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms may continue into early Friday, according to the National Weather Service discussion. Friday will still be warm near 81 degrees, with a slight chance of morning showers and another chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
Weekend Forecast Looks Much Calmer
Conditions turn friendlier Saturday and Sunday, with mostly sunny skies, highs near 81 and 82 degrees, and only a small chance of rain. The warmup returns Monday, when temperatures could reach 85 degrees, followed by more chances for afternoon thunderstorms Monday and Tuesday.
