Travel Advisory Issued For NYC Motzei Shabbos
New York City Emergency Management has issued a travel advisory for Saturday, June 6th to Sunday, June 7th. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts heavy rain, gusty winds and potential severe thunderstorms in New York City over the weekend, with the greatest potential for impacts occurring between 5:00 p.m. Saturday and 2:00 a.m. Sunday.
“Staying safe in heavy rains starts before the first drop hits,” said Mayor Mamdani. “We’re expecting quite a bit of rainfall, wind, and potentially some thunderstorms this weekend. New Yorkers should prepare now by planning ahead, exercising caution while traveling, and signing up for Notify NYC. As always, check in on your neighbors and make sure anyone you know in a basement apartment is taking this risk of heavy rain seriously.”
Rainfall rates are expected to remain below 0.2 inches per hour for most of the event but could briefly reach up to 2 inches per hour during heavier downpours. Total rainfall is expected to range from 0.25 to 1.5 inches. Widespread nuisance flooding is possible, particularly in low-lying and poor-drainage areas, with a low risk of localized flash flooding near the heaviest rainfall. Ponding on roadways may develop during periods of intense rain and in locations where storm drains are clogged.
In addition to heavy rain, gusty winds are expected Saturday. Sustained winds of 10 to 20 mph are forecast during the day, with stronger gusts possible Saturday evening and overnight as thunderstorms move through the area. Wind gusts could reach 65 mph in some locations.
Scattered light rain may linger through Sunday morning, with another round of scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms possible Sunday afternoon and evening.
The Air Quality Index is expected to 115 on Saturday, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Exposure to poor air quality can increase respiratory stress, especially for people with asthma or allergies.
During flash flood threats, NYCEM activates the city’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan, coordinating closely with NWS, city and state agencies, utility providers and private sector partners. This proactive approach includes pre-storm actions such as targeted inspection and clearing of catch basins in flood-prone areas by the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Transportation to help reduce street flooding before heavy rain begins. Coordinated interagency calls ensure partners are briefed on emerging risks and prepared to escalate response operations as needed, while specialized emergency assets and response teams remain on standby for rapid deployment. NYCEM’s 24/7 Watch Command continuously monitors weather conditions and tracks developing systems in real time.
New Yorkers should allow extra travel time during periods of heavy rain, especially Saturday evening. Avoid driving through flooded streets. Even shallow water can stall vehicles. Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture or trash bins before winds increase. If thunder is heard, move indoors and stay away from open areas. Clear debris from nearby storm drains if it is safe to do so to help reduce street flooding. Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, umbrellas, and trash bins before winds increase.