Flood Risks as Tropical System Debby Approaches Upstate New York

The National Weather Service has issued a warning that remnants of Tropical System Debby are projected to track over our region on Friday. The primary concern associated with this system is the potential for flash flooding, with a moderate risk for flash flooding Friday afternoon through Friday night, particularly during periods of heaviest rainfall.

One of the key risks identified by the National Weather Service is the possibility of river flooding on Friday night into the weekend, as creeks and streams drain into main-stem rivers, even after the rain has ended. In addition to the risk of flooding, the region also faces the potential for isolated tornadoes, particularly to the east of I-81 on Friday.

The National Weather Service has emphasized that much of Upstate New York is under a level three risk for numerous flash flooding events, with significant occurrences being a distinct possibility. Current predictions indicate that between 8 am on Friday and 2 am on Saturday, several inches of rain are expected to fall, further elevating the risk of flash flooding in the affected areas.

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While the exact amount of rainfall remains uncertain, initial estimates project 2-3 inches of rain in Montrose, PA, 1.5-2 inches in Binghamton, 2-3 inches in Syracuse, Bath, and Penn Yan, 3-4 inches in Ithaca and Elmira, and 1.5-2 inches in the Norwich area.

However, it's important to note that this is an evolving forecast, subject to change between now and Friday morning.