Heavy Rain and Flood Watch Issued for Hudson Valley and Tri-State Area

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the Hudson Valley and parts of the tri-state area due to expected heavy rainfall and possible severe thunderstorms on Thursday.

Precipitation totals could reach up to 3 inches in northwest New Jersey and the lower Hudson Valley, with some areas experiencing rainfall rates of two to three inches per hour, according to forecasters reported by PIX11 and Syracuse.com.

The weather service warned that excessive runoff might cause flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas, with potential flooding in urban locations with poor drainage.

Joe Punday, a meteorologist with over 25 years of experience, said severe thunderstorms could bring damaging winds of 60 miles per hour or higher in some spots.

Forecasters anticipate the heaviest rain and greatest flash flooding threat on Thursday afternoon and evening, with rainfall totals between 0.5 to 1 inch possible through Friday morning, as reported by SILive.com.

"Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible," the National Weather Service said.

"Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas," the service added.

The weather service urged residents in flood-prone areas to monitor forecasts and be prepared to take action if flooding develops.

Guidelines for safety include seeking higher ground, obeying evacuation orders, disconnecting utilities if time allows, avoiding flooded basements, and evacuating immediately if electrical sparks or noises are noticed.

Drivers are advised never to drive through floodwaters, as just 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most cars, the weather service cautioned.

Additional driving safety tips for wet roads include slowing down, maintaining extended following distances, using headlights, avoiding sudden braking, and staying in middle lanes to reduce hydroplaning risk.

During heavy rain, roads can be slickest in the first half-hour due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil, so extra caution is advised, the weather service stated.

Skies are expected to clear by early Friday morning, with dry and seasonable conditions returning for the weekend and a warming trend early next week, according to SILive.com.