What parts of NY could see the worst flooding? Tracking the storm
Heavy rain from the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby are expected to drench the Rochester region this week, which combined with another weather system moving into the area, could cause potential flash floods and flooding.
Parts of the Rochester region could see 2 to 4 inches of heavy rain Friday, with some localized amounts possible within the 6-inch range, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo. Roughly an inch of rain is expected between late Thursday and late Friday in Rochester, Weather Service meteorologists said.
But which parts of the Rochester region are expected to see the most rain and run the biggest risk for flash floods and other flooding?
What parts of NY will see the most rain, possible flooding?
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, parts of Ontario and Wayne counties in western New York are expected to receive 2 to 3 inches of rain by the end of Friday.
In the Finger Lakes, parts of Seneca and Steuben counties are predicted to be the hardest hit, with 3 to 4 inches of rain predicted. Parts of Yates, Seneca and Steuben counties will likely also see 2 to 3 inches of rainfall.
Northeast of Rochester, Oswego, Jefferson and Lewis counties are also predicted to see 2 to 4 inches of heavy rain.
One area that does not need any more rain, Oswego, Lewis, and Jefferson counties, are under the axis of heavier rainfall. If you live in or near a flood prone area, take precautions now as heavy rain in an area that has already had a wet summer brings heighten concern. pic.twitter.com/6HgPhCJjTz
— NWS Buffalo (@NWSBUFFALO) August 8, 2024
Flood watches issued in upstate NY
Parts of Ontario, Wayne and Cayuga counties are under a flood watch - as are other parts of the Empire State - from Friday morning through Saturday morning, due to the predicted excessive rainfall, according to the Weather Service. The same flood watch also covers Oswego, Jefferson and Lewis counties.
A flood watch is also in effect Friday parts of the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier, including in Seneca, Steuben and Yates counties.
Forecasters said that excessive runoff may cause in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks.
Major flooding threat shifts to the Northeast
AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham is urging people in valleys and other flood-prone areas across the mid-Atlantic and Northeast to prepare for the possibility of flash floods as some areas may see as much as 4 to 8 inches of rain from the remnants of Debby.
"People should be prepared to seek higher ground and to know of an evacuation route and have a plan in place," warned Buckingham.
Along with the threat of flash flooding and beach hazards, AccuWeather expert meteorologists say families and businesses along Debby’s path should be prepared for potential power outages and major travel impacts.
AccuWeather predicts around 5,100 flight cancellations between Thursday and Saturday, according to a news release from the agency.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: What parts of NY could see the worst flooding? Tracking the storm
