Looks like it’s time to prep for some heavy rain.
New York City is in for four days of downpours, starting Saturday night. One can’t help but wonder if the city’s five rag bike tour participants are already bracing for another wet race.
The rain is expected to kick off around 8 PM, accompanied by a strong thunderstorm and gusty winds.
“We have the potential for severe storms today,” meteorologist Marisa Rautenbacher mentioned.
“If you have any loose outdoor items, like trash cans or lawn chairs, it would be wise to bring them in.”
The heavy rains are being pulled into the area from low-pressure systems over the Midwest, which are also fueling the wet weather for events like the Kentucky Derby.
New Yorkers are already noticing the increasing humidity as the rain approaches on Saturday.
Rain is predicted to start Sunday morning, creating a bit of a challenge for the 32,000 cyclists set to embark on a 40-mile tour across the five boroughs this year.
“The bikers will likely avoid the worst of it, so it’s not a complete wash for them, but it’s certainly not ideal as they near the end of the race,” someone involved in the planning might say.
“It won’t start off clear and sunny at 7 AM, but the chance of rain will definitely increase as the race progresses.”
By the afternoon, rain is set to return, continuing until Wednesday, with Monday likely seeing the heaviest downpour.
New York City could end up with three inches of rain by Wednesday, along with strong winds, raising concerns about flash flooding.
While heavy rain can be challenging, it also brings much-needed relief to a city that’s seen dry conditions lately.
In nearby New Jersey, a similar situation unfolds, where two teenagers have reportedly sparked fires that have burned over 15,000 acres.
“We definitely need this rain,” Lautenbacher confirmed. “It’s beneficial.”
