The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flash flood warning for northeast Queens on Wednesday evening. The warning is in effect until 6:15 p.m.
Queens County will see a torrential downpour with potential for strong winds and hail.
Scattered thunderstorms, taking place this afternoon into the evening, will be capable of producing torrential rainfall, with rainfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour possible.
Excessive runoff from rainfall will cause flooding of urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses, as well as any other drainage areas and low-lying spots. Motorists are urged not to drive vehicles into areas where the water covers the roadway.
Flash Flood Warning including Queens NY, The Bronx NY, Floral Park NY until 6:15 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/HT8y74Ug3O
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) August 12, 2020
The NWS warned that Flushing, Jackson Heights, Astoria, Bayside and LaGuardia Airport will experience flooding. Other affected areas throughout the city include Bronx County, Manhattan and northwestern Nassau County.
The NWS urges drivers to avoid flooded roads and highways and for civilians to seek higher ground. Runoff from the rain will flood small creeks and streams, highways, streets, underpasses, urban areas, as well as other drainage areas.
Assemblyman Daniel Rosenthal shared a video of a flooded road in his district in College Point.
When you can’t socially distance, NYC brings the beach to you. #SeenInCollegePoint pic.twitter.com/bIrR0kwQcR
— Daniel Rosenthal (@DanRosenthalNYC) August 12, 2020
Flooding has also been reported on the Cross Island Parkway between Northern Boulevard and the Grand Central Parkway, on the Grand Central Parkway at the Cross Island Parkway, and on the Long Island Expressway at the Cross Island Parkway, according to WCBS 880.
The flooding on the Cross Island Parkway slowed traffic between the LIE and Grand Central Parkway, causing some southbound delays to Throgs Neck Bridge.
If you lose power and have a disability or access needs, or use Life Sustaining Equipment (LSE) and need immediate assistance, dial 911.
For the latest weather information, you can visit the NWS website here.
