New Yorkers are being warned to brace for intense thunderstorms and flash flooding come Thursday afternoon — with as much as 5 inches of rain expected in a matter of hours during evening rush hour.

The city’s emergency management agency urged people to avoid travel over the next 24 hours after the National Weather Service blasted out a flood watch for the region from Thursday at 2 p.m. through Friday 8 a.m.

The National Weather Service was forecasting 1.5 to 3 inches of rain for the city through Friday afternoon, with some areas possibly seeing as much as 5 inches of rainfall.

Manhattan saw heavy rain on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Getty Images

A forecast of which areas will possibly see flooding. FOX Weather

“Most of this rain could fall in as little as 3 to 6 hours this afternoon and evening,” the NWS alert stated.

The heaviest rain is expected from Thursday afternoon until midnight.

Forecasters warned, too, of possible “severe flooding” across the city, New Jersey metro area and parts of Long Island.

A subway station floods on July 14, 2025. via REUTERS

The flood threat continues to grow in New York City as millions brace for heavy rain. FOX Weather

Residents whose homes frequently flood were being cautioned to prepare to flee if the conditions worsened quickly.

“This storm system could bring intense rainfall rates and amounts in a very short period of time,” New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol said.

New Yorkers are bracing for a wet commute on Thursday, July 31, 2025. FOX Weather

High waters seen at 90th Street and East End Avenue. Josh Tepper / SWNS

“Every New Yorker should always be prepared for dangerous weather. Make a plan now, stay alert to changing conditions, and be ready to move quickly at the first sign of rising water, especially if you live in a basement or other below-grade space.”

“Thursday’s storm system is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and potentially dangerous conditions to our city,” Mayor Eric Adams said.

“Flash flooding is one of the most dangerous hazards we face in New York City because it can happen quickly and without warning. Our emergency teams and city agencies are fully mobilized and prepared, but New Yorkers must also take steps to stay safe.”

“Sign up for Notify NYC, know your exits if you live in a basement apartment, and be ready to act before conditions become life-threatening.”