Over 38 million people across the Northeast corridor are preparing for significant severe weather expected on Thursday, with the potential for flash flooding, high winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes. The forecast spans from Syracuse, New York, down to Virginia, impacting a densely populated region.
For the Interstate 95 corridor, which includes major metropolitan areas like New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., thunderstorms could bring rainfall rates exceeding 2 inches per hour. Some areas may experience up to 5 inches of rain. The severe weather is anticipated to begin around 1 p.m. on Thursday, continuing in a scattered pattern through the afternoon and evening. The forecast indicates the most intense storms will likely affect New York City between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., with Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., expected to see the worst between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. A flood watch has been issued for New York City, its Hudson Valley region, much of New Jersey, and Philadelphia, remaining in effect from noon through the evening. Residents in these areas are advised to monitor weather alerts as conditions develop.