Torrential downpour wreaks havoc in Northeast, millions under flood alert

• Heavy rain triggers flood threats for over 10 million people in the northeast.

• Travelers experience delays and challenges due to heavy rainfall.

• New York City experiences improvement as heavy rain moves away.

Heavy rain causes high water and flooding along Highway 101 in Tillamook, Ore., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023. (Dave Killen/The Oregonian via AP)

AP

Get ready to brace yourself for some seriously soggy weather, folks! The northeast region is currently getting hammered by heavy rain, bringing about flood threats for over 10 million people. And that's not all – there's also a mix of rain and snow expected in parts of the Mississippi River Valley and the Appalachians. Our trusty weatherman has been diligently tracking all of this wild weather.

The focus has been on the northeast due to the sheer number of travelers passing through the region via roads, trails, rails, and even the airways. But alas, this relentless rainfall has made it a tough and slow journey for many. However, we do have a glimmer of good news to share – the heavy rain has decided to take a hike and move away from New York City. Cheers to that!

Although the rain has moved on, there's still reason to exercise caution. River levels remain alarmingly high, particularly in urban areas. In fact, a staggering 10 million Americans are currently under flood alerts in this region. Flood advisories are in effect for parts of Long Island and Connecticut, with flood warnings stretching further towards the west of New York.

Let's take a look at the precipitation numbers. Overnight, we've witnessed a widespread rainfall of 1 to 2 inches. However, a few localized areas have seen more significant downpours, with rainfall reaching 2 to 4 inches. Take Monroe and Allentown, for example, where the heavens have truly released their watery fury. The Hudson Valley has borne the brunt, leading to some of the highest recorded river gauges in the warned areas.

But fear not, New Yorkers! The rain has bid you farewell, and now it's time to redirect our attention towards Hartford, Providence, and Boston. Thursday morning calls for a wet and sluggish commute in these areas. Blame it on the broader storm system meandering over the eastern third of the country. On its backside, temperatures have plummeted, allowing a transition from rain to snow. South of St. Louis, snowfall has already blanketed the landscape, while Indianapolis remains trapped in a light rain shower.

Looking ahead, the next 36 hours hold the promise of light snow showers across the magnificent Appalachians. Some spots north and west of Chicago may even catch a break with a band of heavier snowfall, amounting to 1 to 3 inches. Oh, how we long for the fluffy flakes to grace our beloved Big Apple! Unfortunately, temperatures are stubbornly above freezing, defying the norms for this time of year.

So, bundle up, my friends, because it seems the snow drought is here to stay in New York City. But don't forget your rain boots, as the rain continues to wreak havoc in the northeast. Stay safe, stay dry, and let's hope for better weather days ahead!