Nearly 17 million people on the East Coast are under flood watches, with the highest threat for flooding stretching across the Northeast.
There are also a number of thunderstorms on the East Coast that may become severe. Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Savannah and Myrtle Beach all have the risk for strong to severe storms on Saturday.
In South Carolina, the Isle of Palms Police Department said they had begun to see rising water levels.
“We are starting to see high water levels on island roads. Many roads are not passable to small vehicles. Please do not be driving right now if you do not absolutely need to be. Remember turn around don’t drown,” Isle of Palms police said in a statement.
Damaging winds and an isolated tornado are the main threats to watch for this weekend.
In this photo released by the Isle of Palms Police Department, on March 9, 2024, file photo, rain and flood waters are shown on a road in Isle of Palms, S.C.
Isle of Palms Police Department
The severe threat tapers down into the night Saturday, with quiet and cooler weather for much of the eastern half of the country heading through Sunday and into the start of next week.
Up the coast, the rainy Saturday stretches through the Mid-Atlantic and into the Northeast.
Rain is moving in during the morning for cities like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore and eventually moving into New York City and Boston during the afternoon.
Heading into the evening, heavy rain will be drenching much of the I-95 corridor. The ground is saturated across a large swath of the Northeast following the rounds of rain this week.
Winter precipitation over the past 3 months running up to 200% above normal in parts of the region.
Meanwhile in the mountains of upstate New York and New England, heavy wet snow will be falling. Winter storm alerts are in effect for northern New York State, as well as Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.
The higher elevations may be seeing snow totals of 6 to 12 inches from this storm. The northern Adirondacks, in New York, and some peaks in the White Mountains, in New Hampshire, may be seeing more than a foot of snow from this late-season storm.
As the Northeastern United States braces for heavy rainfall and potential flooding, over 17 million people are under flood watches in various states including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings and watches for many areas in the region as a result of a slow-moving storm system that is expected to bring several inches of rain over the next few days.
The combination of already saturated ground from previous storms and the forecasted heavy rainfall has raised concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas, near rivers, and in urban areas with poor drainage systems. Flash flooding is also a major concern, as intense downpours can quickly overwhelm storm drains and cause water to rapidly rise in streets and basements.
Residents in flood-prone areas are being urged to take precautions and prepare for the possibility of flooding. This includes clearing gutters and drains of debris, moving valuables to higher ground, and having an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents ready in case of evacuation.
Local officials are also monitoring water levels in rivers and streams and are prepared to issue evacuation orders if necessary. In some areas, sandbags are being distributed to help protect homes and businesses from rising waters.
The potential for flooding is a serious threat to public safety and property in the Northeastern United States. It is important for residents to stay informed about weather updates and heed any warnings or advisories issued by authorities. By taking proactive measures and being prepared, individuals can help minimize the impact of flooding on their communities.
In conclusion, with millions of people under flood watches in the Northeastern United States, it is crucial for residents to be vigilant and prepared for the potential risks associated with heavy rainfall and flooding. By staying informed, taking precautions, and following the guidance of local officials, we can work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities during this challenging weather event.
