If you’re headed outside after 5 p.m. today, think again. A powerful thunderstorm system is zeroing in on NYC just in time for the evening rush hour, and it’s bringing lightning, torrential rain, and potential flooding. Weather experts are warning: this storm isn’t a light summer sprinkle—it’s the kind that can snarl traffic, delay trains, and make umbrellas feel useless.
The sudden weather shift will hit fast, with cloud cover building quickly and explosive downpours possible across the boroughs. Roads are expected to slick up in minutes, and forecasters say wind gusts and even hail could follow. Flash flooding in low-lying areas like underpasses and basements isn’t out of the question.
But the real twist? This wild weather won’t last long. Once the storm moves out overnight, New York is in for a major heat swing just in time for the July 4th holiday weekend. After today’s chaos, the city will settle into a hot, sunny, and dry stretch, perfect for parades and fireworks—but dangerous if you’re not heat-prepared.
Tonight’s Storm: What to Expect
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Timing: After 5 p.m., intense thunderstorms could move through quickly and aggressively.
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Threats: Lightning, flash flooding, heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds could all hit during your evening commute.
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Impact: Expect delays on subways, snarled highway traffic, and poor visibility. Outdoor dining or rooftop plans? You’ll want a backup.
Independence Day Weekend Forecast: Sunny, Hot, and Getting Hotter
Once the storm blows through, things heat up—literally.
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Thursday, July 3: Partly sunny, muggy, with highs near 90°F and a slight chance of a stray storm.
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Friday, July 4: Perfect parade and fireworks weather. Sunny skies, highs around 85°F, and dry air will make for a classic summer holiday.
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Saturday, July 5: Warmer still, with highs pushing 87°F—but air quality may suffer.
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Sunday, July 6: A true heat punch. Highs surge into the 90s, and humidity will make it feel even hotter. This is when heat exhaustion risk rises, especially for vulnerable groups.
Why It’s Happening
This two-part punch comes from a cold front sweeping through the region today, sparking storms as it clashes with lingering humid air. Behind that? A high-pressure dome settles in, bringing dry, stagnant air and rising temps through the weekend. That’s the recipe for sun by day, heat by night, and lots of sweat in between.
What You Should Do Now
For Tuesday night:
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Avoid driving during storm hours if you can—flooding and poor visibility are likely.
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Secure outdoor items like plants, umbrellas, and electronics.
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Watch for alerts on phone apps and local news—conditions could change fast.
For July 4 weekend:
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Hydrate often if you’ll be outside at festivals or cookouts.
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Wear light clothing and take shade breaks—especially
