Flash flood threat grows as NYC opens shelters, airports halt flights

Key Points:

• New York City officials have issued a Flood Watch through noon Sunday, urging residents to prepare for heavy rain and possible flash flooding, especially between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., with rainfall expected to reach 1.5 to 3 inches across the city.
• Fifty-one overnight shelters have been opened for residents in vulnerable living situations, such as basement apartments, and pets are allowed at these sites.
• Emergency crews are actively clearing catch basins and positioning resources, while residents are advised to know their exits, avoid driving through flooded streets, and monitor weather alerts closely.
• Intense rainfall rates of up to 2.5 inches per hour could overwhelm drainage systems, leading to rapid street flooding, particularly in low-lying and historically flood-prone neighborhoods.
• Conditions are expected to improve by Sunday afternoon, but officials emphasize caution, advising residents to allow extra travel time, keep devices charged, and call 911 if in immediate danger.