NYC Emergency Management Issues Travel Advisory for Rain and Thunderstorms on Monday

March 15, 2026

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NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES WEATHER ALERT FOR RAIN AND THUNDERSTORMS ON MONDAY

High Winds and Minor Flooding may Disrupt the Evening Commute

NEW YORK - The New York City Emergency Management Department (NYCEM) has issued a Weather Alert for Monday, March 16. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts rain and thunderstorms for New York City as a strong cold front moves through the region. The anticipated rain is expected to impact the evening commute. NYCEM has activated the City's Flash Flood Emergency Plan.

According to the latest forecast, rain is expected to begin Sunday evening around 7 p.m. and continue overnight into early Monday morning. Periods of moderate rain are likely throughout the overnight hours and into the Monday morning commute. Scattered thunderstorms are possible late Monday morning through the afternoon, with the greatest risk for stronger storms during the evening. The most active period is expected between about 6 p.m. Monday and 2 a.m. Tuesday as the cold front moves across the region. During this time, heavier downpours, gusty winds, and organized thunderstorms may develop. Rain will gradually taper early Tuesday morning. A brief rain or snow shower cannot be ruled out on Tuesday morning as cooler air moves into the region.

"New York City is bracing for rain, thunderstorms, and high winds on Monday," said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Christina Farrell. "NYC Emergency Management has activated the City's Flash Flood Emergency Plan and is closely coordinating with the National Weather Service and our partner agencies in response to the expected conditions. We urge New Yorkers to prepare for potential impacts, allow extra travel time, and consider using public transportation. Sign up for Notify NYC by texting NOTIFYNYC to 692-692 to receive the latest weather updates."

Rainfall totals across New York City are expected from 1.0 to 1.1 inches, with localized amounts up to 1.25 inches where thunderstorms develop. Most rainfall rates will remain under 0.25 inches per hour, though heavier showers could briefly produce rates near 1 inch per hour. There is a Wind Advisory in effect from 2 p.m. Monday to 4 a.m. Tuesday. South to southeast winds are expected to increase through Monday, with sustained winds of 15 to 22 mph and gusts up to 55 mph during the evening as the cold front moves through the area.

The severe weather risk remains low but not zero. There is a slight chance of isolated strong storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts on Monday evening. Localized flooding is possible, especially in low-lying areas, underpasses, and locations with poor drainage. Ponding on roadways may develop during heavier downpours and where storm drains are clogged.

New Yorkers should allow extra travel time during periods of heavy rain, especially during the Monday evening commute. 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. Stay informed by checking the forecast and signing up for emergency alerts at nyc.gov/notifynyc. Have a plan and "Be Ready" for thunderstorms and rainfall by visiting nyc.gov/beready.

NYCEM recommends the following preparedness actions for New Yorkers in coastal flood-prone regions and low-lying areas:

• Communication and Information: Before and during an emergency, the City will send emergency alerts through various channels, including Notify NYC, available in 13 different languages, with a special sub-group dedicated to Basement Apartment Dwellers. Subscribe to Notify NYC at NYC.gov/NotifyNYC, download the app in your phone's app store, or dial 311. Keep a battery-powered radio ready for timely updates, particularly if power outages are expected.

• Storm Drains and Local Warnings: If it's safe to do so, check and clear any nearby storm drains to help manage water runoff and lessen the chances of localized flooding. Pay attention to localized warnings, especially those pertaining to rip currents and high waves.

• Prepare for Outages: To gear up for potential power disruptions, keep your cell phones charged, stock up on supplies. If power outages are predicted, consider adjusting your refrigerator and freezer to colder settings to extend the shelf life of perishable items. Ensure that flashlights and battery-operated radios or TVs are functional, keeping extra batteries on hand. If you rely on Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and lose power, dial 911 for immediate assistance, and remember never to use generators indoors. Check on vulnerable individuals in your community, such as older adults and people with disabilities or health conditions and assist them in their preparations.

For the latest updates sign up for emergency alerts by visiting the Notify NYC page, texting 'NotifyNYC' to 692-692 or call 311.

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MEDIA CONTACT: NYCEM Press Office (718) 422-4888

STAY CONNECTED: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications), @nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info)

Facebook: /NYCemergencymanagement