NYC Air Quality Deteriorates as Tri-State Prepares for Stormy Weekend

While the air quality has shown some improvement, haze continues to linger as New Yorkers prepare for an upcoming stormy Saturday. An air quality alert remains in effect for New Jersey and parts of Connecticut until 12 a.m. on Sunday.

First Alert Weather Day

Saturday is designated as a First Alert Weather Day due to poor air quality and the potential for severe storms. It’s essential to check the latest severe weather warnings, watches, and alerts to stay informed about the conditions.

When Will Air Quality Improve?

Compared to Thursday, the AQI levels improved on Friday, and the haze moved southward. However, this improvement was temporary. Southerly winds brought the smoke, haze, and poor AQI levels back into the area by Friday night.

The smoke, haze, and poor air quality levels are expected to improve significantly by Saturday night.

Tornado Risk at 5% in NYC Area

As the smoke and haze levels rise again on Friday night, so do the humidity levels and cloud coverage. Overnight temperatures will mainly range from the upper 60s to the lower 70s. The high humidity levels set the stage for a stormy day on Saturday.

Showers and isolated downpours are expected to develop from west to east between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

From 2 p.m. onward, there is a potential for very strong to severe thunderstorms. These storms may bring damaging winds, large hail, torrential downpours, and even tornadoes.

The tornado risk is estimated at 5% in the NYC area, which is significant for this part of the country.

How Much Rain Will Fall on Saturday?

In addition to the elevated tornado risk, the flood risk is also high. The saturated airmass in place will lead to heavy rainfall rates, reaching up to 1-2 inches per hour. This could result in flash flooding.

After 11 p.m., storm activity will begin to subside, with clearing skies expected by Sunday morning. Overall, this rainfall event is likely to bring 2-3 inches of rain on average, with localized higher amounts possible.

Highs on Saturday will be kept low due to the rain, only reaching the upper 70s to around 80 degrees. However, it will feel extremely muggy.

Sunshine on Sunday

By Sunday, conditions will significantly improve in terms of both weather and air quality.

Expect lots of sunshine, lower humidity, and highs in the mid-80s, making for a perfect end to the weekend and the World Cup.