New York City residents are urged to exercise caution as an April nor'easter sweeps through the five boroughs, bringing heavy rains and strong winds on Wednesday.
The New York City Office of Emergency Management has issued a travel advisory effective through Thursday morning in response to the severe weather conditions.
According to NY1 chief meteorologist John Davitt, the coastal storm will bring 2 to 3 inches of rainfall by Thursday morning. Rainfall is expected to become heavy at times, particularly during Wednesday afternoon and evening.
A flood watch has been put into effect for New York City through 1 a.m. Thursday. The National Weather Service has cautioned that minor to moderate coastal flooding may occur in vulnerable areas along the southern coast of Queens and in the Bronx.
Highway flooding will be at the highest risk during the evening commute Wednesday, according to Davitt. Downed trees, which were already being reported before noon on Wednesday, will also be a risk.
High wind warnings have also been issued, with gusts exceeding 50 mph anticipated, and a bridge ban for empty tractor trailers has been implemented at all MTA bridges.
NYC Ferry announced early Wednesday the suspension of all services on the Rockaway Beach line due to the inclement weather.
As of around 3:30 p.m., according to FlightAware, John F. Kennedy International Airport had seen 246 delays and 21 cancellations; LaGuardia Airport had seen 319 delays and 22 cancellations; and Newark Liberty International Airport had seen 240 delays and 17 cancellations.
Officials encourage New Yorkers to use mass transit where possible and to anticipate travel delays.
The Mets postponed Wednesday night's game against the Detroit Tigers due to the weather. It will be made up as part of a single-admission doubleheader tomorrow, beginning at 12:10 p.m. The second game will begin about a half hour after the first game ends.
Tickets for the postponed game will not be valid for admission to the doubleheader, the team said. Ticket holders can check the Mets' rainout policy for instructions on how to exchange their ticket.
Tickets for the postponed game will not be valid for admission to the doubleheader, the Mets noted.