According to BsgistNews, we gathered that a severe weather system is bearing down on the U.S. East Coast, with major cities along the Interstate 95 corridor including New York City, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia bracing for potentially life-threatening flash floods on Thursday.
Forecasters warn that rainfall rates could reach up to 3 inches per hour, with isolated areas potentially seeing 5 to 8 inches of rainfall. Widespread totals between 1 and 3 inches are expected across the region. The heaviest downpours are likely to fall during Thursday afternoon’s rush hour and extend into the evening, raising concerns over urban flooding and traffic gridlocks.
The worst-hit areas are expected to be northern New Jersey, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., where damaging winds and large hail could also accompany the storms.
In response, New York City has issued a flood watch starting Thursday afternoon along with a travel advisory extending into Friday.
“Be prepared for a serious storm,” Mayor Eric Adams cautioned residents on social media. “Avoid traveling if you can, and set up any flood prevention tools in advance.”
Flash Flood Nightmare in New Mexico
In the Western U.S., the town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, is reeling from its fourth flash flood of the month. The Ruidoso Downs Racetrack overflowed, and the Rio Ruidoso river at Hollywood surged to 9.4 feet, surpassing flood stage. More downpours are possible Thursday night into Friday.
Heat Alerts Across 11 States: Over 50 Million Affected
While the East braces for floods, the South is baking under extreme heat. Over 50 million Americans across 11 states are under heat alerts.
An extreme heat warning remains in effect for the lower Mississippi River Valley, including Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Heat indices in these states are expected to soar to between 110°F and 120°F.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Arizona will face intense heat with Phoenix and Tucson under extreme heat warnings. Temperatures are forecast to reach 105°F to 114°F, excluding the humidity index.
[ABC News]
