Flood Warnings Persist Across New York After Record Rainfall

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Numerous flood warnings remain active across Western and Central New York following heavy rainfall that set records and pushed multiple rivers and creeks to or above flood stage. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and warnings for several counties, with Buffalo Creek, Cayuga Creek, and the Tonawanda River forecast to crest at moderate flood stage, and other waterways expected to reach minor flood stage. Additional rainfall and snowmelt are expected to keep river levels elevated through Wednesday.

Why it matters

Flooding can pose significant risks to public safety, infrastructure, and property, especially in areas with high population density or critical facilities. The ongoing flood event highlights the need for effective emergency management and preparedness measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather in New York.

The details

The National Weather Service in Buffalo reported that widespread rainfall of two to three inches, with some areas receiving more, fell across Western New York from Monday night through Tuesday. In the Capital Region, the combination of one to three inches of rainfall and snowmelt has pushed the West Canada Creek at Hinckley and the Sacandaga River at Hope to minor to moderate flood stages. An additional quarter to half inch of precipitation is expected in those areas over the next 24 hours, with ponding on roadways and elevated river flows continuing into Wednesday night.

• Heavy rainfall began on Monday night and continued through Tuesday.
• A flood watch remains in effect through Wednesday evening for much of Western New York.
• An additional quarter to half inch of precipitation is expected in the Capital Region over the next 24 hours.

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates on river levels and flood conditions as the storm system moves through the region.