Residents of Central New York and Northeast Pennsylvania should be on alert as heavy rain continues to pour across the region, creating flash flood risks that could last into Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Flood Watch for 18 counties, including Onondaga, Broome, Tioga, Steuben, and Luzerne. With rainfall totals expected to overwhelm storm drains and small waterways, residents in urban areas like Syracuse, Binghamton, Elmira, and Scranton should be especially cautious.
Flood Watch Issued for 18 Counties
The Flood Watch remains in effect until 11 a.m. Tuesday, with heavy rain expected to cause significant runoff overnight. Creeks and low-lying areas are at risk, particularly in regions near the Chemung River and its tributaries in Tompkins, Schuyler, and Yates counties. Areas near Route 17, I-81, and rural roads around Sayre and Montrose may also experience localized flooding due to the saturated ground, which will increase runoff risks.
Flooding Risk in Urban and Rural Areas
Urban areas, such as Syracuse, Binghamton, Elmira, and Scranton, are at greater risk of experiencing flooding as the rain could overwhelm the storm drain systems. In rural areas, the risk of localized flooding is heightened, with rural roads near Sayre and Montrose being particularly vulnerable. Those living near creeks, rivers, or flood-prone zones should remain on high alert and monitor weather updates closely.
Safety Tips for Residents
Emergency officials are urging residents to take several precautions to stay safe during this potentially dangerous weather event:
- Avoid driving on flooded roadways.
- Charge your phones and have backup power in case of power outages.
- Prepare for potential evacuations, especially in flood-prone areas, and stay tuned to local authorities for guidance.
- Stay updated on flood warnings and weather conditions, as rainfall could intensify overnight.
Cause of the Flooding Risk
This flash flooding risk is due to tropical moisture feeding into the region, resulting in heavy rainfall. Similar flooding events occurred in June 2021 and 2013, and this system is expected to follow a similar pattern. Though conditions are expected to improve by late Tuesday morning, there remains a possibility of additional warnings if rainfall intensifies overnight.
What to Expect After Tuesday Morning
While conditions should improve by late Tuesday morning, residents should remain cautious as the situation could change if the rain becomes more intense. Localized flooding may persist in some areas, and additional warnings may be issued. It’s crucial to continue monitoring local weather updates and take necessary precautions until the flood risk passes.
