Yisroel R.

Keep the umbrella close Thursday afternoon. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to move through the region later in the day, bringing the potential for heavy downpours and flash flooding in some areas.

The National Weather Service says the greatest threat for flash flooding will come during the late afternoon and early evening, mainly between 3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.

Rainfall totals are generally expected to reach between half an inch and one inch, although isolated locations could see close to three inches. Rain could fall particularly hard at times, with rates of one to locally two inches per hour possible.

The heavy rainfall could lead to isolated or scattered flash flooding, particularly in urban areas, locations with poor drainage, low-lying areas, and along streams that respond quickly to heavy rain. The highest risk is expected across New York City, parts of New Jersey, and the lower Hudson Valley. The National Weather Service says damaging wind gusts cannot be ruled out.

A Flood Watch could be needed for portions of the area as conditions develop. Residents should keep an eye on the weather through the afternoon and evening as the storms move through.