The weekend forecast for New York is anything but predictable. If you had plans to spend time outdoors, you might want to reconsider or at least be prepared for some unsettling weather. A Wind Advisory has been issued, and heavy rain and gusty winds are expected to hit the region starting Saturday afternoon and continuing into Sunday.
What to Expect This Weekend
As the spring season continues to shift the weather patterns, we’re in for a classic spring storm. Saturday, April 5th, will bring scattered rain showers throughout the day, and the wind will begin picking up by midday, turning into a more significant concern by late afternoon and evening. Expect wind gusts that could reach 40-50 mph, which means it’s going to feel pretty gusty outside. The combination of heavy rain and strong winds will make traveling a bit tricky, especially if you’re driving.
Sunday won’t bring much relief either. While the rain may taper off a little in the morning, the winds will stick around, keeping things blustery throughout the day. If you’re heading out, be prepared for some occasional showers and to feel the chill of the wind.
When’s it Happening?
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Saturday: Expect rain to start rolling in by early afternoon, with the heaviest showers hitting in the evening. The winds will gradually pick up in the afternoon, getting stronger as the evening sets in. If you’re heading out Saturday night, expect wet roads and gusty conditions.
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Sunday: A lighter start to the day in terms of rain, but don’t let that fool you. The winds will continue through the day, likely even stronger than on Saturday, making it feel pretty raw. Keep an eye out for brief showers that might pop up unexpectedly.
How This Will Affect You
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Traveling: If you’re planning to drive, take caution. The combination of rain and strong winds could make for slick roads, poor visibility, and challenging driving conditions. The winds will be particularly strong around bridges and open areas, so keep a firm grip on the wheel. If you’re out in the car, watch out for debris that could be blown onto the roads.
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Outdoor Plans: If you’ve got outdoor activities planned, think twice. It’s not just the rain that’ll be an issue—it’s those strong gusts that could make a picnic or a day at the park uncomfortable, not to mention dangerous. If you do need to go outside, wear rain gear, bring a sturdy umbrella (although it might get flipped inside out with those gusts), and watch for any flying debris or falling branches.
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Power Outages: With winds gusting up to 50 mph, there’s a chance we’ll see some power outages in areas where trees are close to power lines. If you live in an area prone to outages, now’s a good time to check your emergency kit. Make sure you’ve got a flashlight, extra batteries, and a portable charger for your phone. It’s always best to be prepared.
Why Is This Happening?
It’s all part of a spring storm system making its way across the region. The low-pressure system moving in from the Midwest is colliding with warmer, moist air over New York, bringing the rain and gusty winds. This isn’t an unusual setup for spring—this type of weather pattern is something we see often as the seasons shift, with temperatures and pressure systems constantly changing.
The strong winds are a result of the difference in air pressure between the storm and surrounding areas. The greater the difference, the faster the air moves, which is why we’ll feel gusts picking up as the system moves through. So, while the rain itself won’t be too extreme, the wind will make the day feel a lot more intense than your usual spring day.
Tips for Preparing This Weekend
While this weekend’s weather may not be a major storm, it’s enough to make you want to be prepared. Here’s how you can stay ahead of the weather:
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Secure Your Outdoor Items: If you’ve got patio furniture or decorations outside, make sure they’re either brought inside or secured. You don’t want a flying table or chair turning into a dangerous projectile.
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Check Your Emergency Supplies: Power outages are possible, so make sure you have things like flashlights, extra batteries, and a portable charger. Stock up on snacks and water just in case you’re without power for a bit.
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Drive Carefully: The wind and rain could create slippery roads and low visibility. If you must drive, slow down, keep your distance from other cars, and watch for fallen branches or debris on the roads.
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Stay Updated: Weather conditions can change quickly, so be sure to stay tuned to the latest forecasts. You can always check the National Weather Service for updates, warnings, and advisories.
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Stay Inside If You Can: If you don’t have to be out, it’s probably best to stay indoors and keep cozy. If you do need to head out, be prepared for the wind and rain and dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Spring in New York is always full of surprises, and this weekend looks like it will be no exception. Rain and wind are on the way, and although it’s not expected to be a major storm, it’s still enough to throw a wrench in your plans. If you need to be outside, make sure you’re ready for the wind and wet conditions. And if you’re driving, stay alert and be extra cautious on those slick, gusty roads.
