10 Jul 2023 | 08:03 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across parts of the Northeast Region through at least early July 11 /update 1
Severe weather likely across much of the Northeast US through at least early July 11. Flooding and associated disruptions likely.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across much of the Northeast US through at least early July 11. A strong summer cold front has brought heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to parts of the region since July 9 and is expected to produce further excessive rainfall in the coming hours, which could trigger flooding across the affected area. Rainfall totals of around 12.5-20 cm (5-8 inches) were recorded in parts of Pennsylvania and New York July 9-10 and further rainfall amounts of up to 20 cm (8 inches) are forecast across parts of the affected region July 10-11. Potential flash flooding and heavy downpours could trigger landslides on unstable slopes.
As of early July 10, authorities have reported at least one fatality due to flash floods in Orange County, New York. There were disruptions to hundreds of flights at New York airports and other airports across the region July 9 and floodwaters have made dozens of roads in the affected areas impassable; further substantial air and ground transport disruptions are likely through early July 11.
As of early July 10, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings across parts of central and northern Vermont and northern New Hampshire, as well as flood warnings, watches, and advisories across much of the affected area. The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a moderate risk (level 3 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall across parts of eastern New York, western Connecticut, western Massachusetts, much of Vermont, and western New Hampshire early July 10, as well as a slight risk of excessive rainfall for surrounding areas of the northeast. There is a high risk (level 4) of excessive rainfall across parts of northern and central Vermont and northeastern New York July 10-11, as well as a moderate risk for the rest of Vermont and parts of eastern New York, western New Hampshire, much of Massachusetts, northern Connecticut, and northern Rhode Island and a slight risk across much of the affected area. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and days.
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather will likely trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions will likely occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites. Strong winds could also cause power outages.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
