New York, NY – After a bright, sunny start, showers and thunderstorms are forecast to sweep into the city Wednesday afternoon, potentially ending the recent spell of dry weather. Temperatures will peak in the upper 80s to lower 90s, with the warmest spots likely in northern New Jersey, the Hudson Valley, and interior Connecticut.
Sunny Start, Stormy Finish
According to the National Weather Service, winds from the south to southwest will range from 10 to 15 mph, with occasional gusts up to 20 mph. This wind pattern will help build the instability needed for storms to develop. The highest rain chances are expected from mid-afternoon into the evening commute, posing potential disruptions along key routes such as I-95, the Long Island Expressway, and the George Washington Bridge approaches.
Possible Flooding and Lightning Risks
Forecasters warn that localized downpours could lead to brief street flooding in low-lying neighborhoods, particularly where storm drains are clogged with debris. Lightning will also be a serious hazard, making outdoor sports, events, and other open-air activities dangerous after 3 p.m. Residents should be ready to move indoors quickly at the first signs of approaching storms.
Looking Ahead to Thursday
While the bulk of the storm activity should taper off by late Wednesday night, scattered showers could linger into early Thursday morning. Clearing skies are expected later in the day, with more comfortable conditions returning for the end of the workweek.
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