STORM WATCH: Stormy weather with moderate to heavy rain from this afternoon into Friday
Nor'easter impacts Long Island with heavy rain, strong winds and some coastal flooding.
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STORM WATCH: Tracking a Nor'easter Bringing Heavy Rain, Gusty Winds, Coastal Flooding Concerns and Colder Temperatures to Long Island.
We're on Storm Watch as we track a nor'easter that will impact Long Island today and tomorrow, bringing periods of moderate to heavy rain, gusty winds, the potential for localized street flooding and much colder temperatures. We'll start our Thursday with cloudy skies before periods of rain develop during the afternoon. Some of the rain could become moderate to heavy at times, especially during the evening rush hour. We can't rule out a spotty thunderstorm, either. It will be breezy, with afternoon temperatures reaching around 60 degrees. If you're heading out later today, make sure you have the umbrella and rain gear handy. Watch for ponding on roadways and localized street flooding, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas. Fallen leaves could clog storm drains, allowing water to accumulate quickly during heavier downpours. Allow extra travel time for the evening commute, slow down on wet roads and never attempt to drive through flooded streets.
Expect cloudy skies with periods of rain, some of which could be moderate to heavy at times. We can't rule out a thunderstorm, and winds could gust near 30 mph, especially along the coast. Temperatures will turn much colder overnight, dropping into the 30s by Friday morning. Localized street flooding and significant ponding on roads will remain concerns tonight into Friday, particularly where storm drains are blocked by fallen leaves. We're also closely monitoring the potential for minor coastal flooding around the times of high tide today and tomorrow. Residents in flood-prone shoreline communities, especially along the South Shore and around the bays, should monitor water levels and be prepared for possible flooding of low-lying roads and parking areas. Some beach erosion is also possible where persistent onshore winds and elevated surf develop. The extent of coastal flooding will depend on the storm's track, wind direction and timing of high tides.
Friday is shaping up to be a cold, raw and rainy day across Long Island. Periods of rain will continue, with the potential for moderate to heavy rainfall during the morning hours. Temperatures will struggle to climb out of the mid-40s, making it feel more like winter than fall, especially with the damp conditions and breezy weather. Be weather aware during the Friday morning commute, as heavier downpours could lead to additional ponding and localized street flooding. Watch for standing water near intersections, underpasses and other low-lying areas. Wet leaves can also make roadways and sidewalks especially slippery. Give yourself extra time getting to work or school, increase your following distance and keep your headlights on when driving in the rain. If you're dropping the kids off at school, make sure they have their raincoats, umbrellas and waterproof shoes. Coastal flooding will also remain a concern around high tide, so continue to monitor conditions if you live or travel near the shoreline.
Rainy conditions will continue Friday night, but the good news is that our nor'easter should gradually begin to pull away as we head toward Saturday morning. Rain will taper off, although a few lingering showers are possible early Saturday. Overnight temperatures will drop into the 30s. Saturday will remain mostly cloudy and chilly, with afternoon highs only reaching the mid- to upper 40s. If you have outdoor activities planned, especially during the morning hours, keep the jacket and umbrella nearby. Roads could remain wet from the recent rainfall, and fallen leaves may continue to create slippery conditions. With temperatures staying well below what we've experienced recently, you'll definitely want the warmer jackets for any outdoor activities.
The good news is that we're looking at improving weather conditions for the second half of the weekend. Sunday should be the better day for outdoor plans, with a mixture of sunshine and clouds and dry conditions expected. Afternoon temperatures will recover into the upper 40s and a few lower 50s. It will still be chilly, but at least we'll get a break from the rain and gusty winds. Whether you're heading out for a walk, taking care of yard work or enjoying some family activities, Sunday looks like the pick of the weekend. Our biggest weather concerns remain the moderate to heavy rain, localized street flooding, gusty winds and potential minor coastal flooding through Friday. Stay weather aware, keep storm drains clear of leaves if you can do so safely, and continue checking News 12 for the latest Storm Watch updates as our nor'easter moves through Long Island.
