Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Threaten Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

 

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A significant threat of heavy rain and flash flooding is impacting the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. A slow-moving cold front, along with an area of low pressure, is the primary cause of the severe weather.

Key points:

 * Areas affected: A Flood Watch is in effect from Virginia to Connecticut, encompassing major cities along the I-95 corridor such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City.

 * Rainfall: The most intense storms could bring several inches of rain in a short period. Total rainfall amounts of 2-4 inches are likely, with isolated areas potentially seeing 5-8 inches. Rain rates could reach up to 3 inches per hour.

 

 * Risk level: The NOAA Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has placed a "moderate risk" (Level 3 out of 4) for flooding in the region, affecting millions of people.

 * Impacts: The heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding in urban areas, low-lying locations, and poor drainage areas. This could cause significant travel disruptions on major highways like I-95.

   

 * Additional threats: In addition to the flooding threat, severe weather is also possible, with the potential for damaging wind gusts, large hail, and even tornadoes.

The threat is expected to shift southward into the Southeast, specifically the Carolinas and Georgia, over the weekend. Following the storms, cooler and less humid air is forecasted to move into the Northeast.

Residents in the affected areas should stay informed about the latest weather alerts and be prepared to take action if a Flash Flood Warning is issued. The National Weather Service advises against driving through flooded roads, as the water is often deeper than it appears.