Downpours and strong winds prompt weather warnings in the northeast

NEW YORK — Parts of the northeast were bracing for a stormy night Sunday, with high winds and heavy rain bringing the risk of flooding and power outages during Monday morning's commute.

Floodwaters were in effect through Monday in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and southern New England. The National Weather Service said 1 to 2 inches of rain was expected in parts of Long Island and southern Connecticut, while 2 to 3 inches of rain was expected in other areas.

Wind gusts of up to 50 miles per hour were forecast, including in New York City, where the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced a ban on empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks for 12 hours starting at 6 p.m. Sunday.

New York Mayor Eric Adams has activated the city's flash flood emergency plan.

“We are preparing for the heaviest rainfall and strongest winds from Sunday night to Monday morning, which means everyone should take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their belongings in the event of possible flooding in low-lying areas,” he said during a radio -broadcast. Sunday. “So this is serious stuff.”

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said government agencies were ready with generators, portable heaters, chainsaws and other equipment.