Flash Flood Warnings Issued Across Upstate New York

The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for parts of western Chemung and Schuyler counties, along with all of Steuben and Yates counties, as the remnants of a weather system sweep through New York state.

The flash flood warning is active until 3:30 p.m. on Friday. By 9:30 a.m., many areas had already received up to an inch of rain, with flash flooding either occurring or expected to start very soon.

Forecasters are warning of possible flash flooding in small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, and other low-lying areas with poor drainage. Some of the locations that could be affected include Elmira, Corning, Hornell, Penn Yan, Watkins Glen, and many others.

Officials are strongly advising against unnecessary travel due to the hazardous road conditions caused by widespread flash flooding. Southern Steuben County has experienced significant flooding issues, particularly in the hamlets along the Tuscarora Creek.

Residents along the Tuscarora Creek, particularly between Woodhull and Addison, are being urged to move to higher ground immediately. A Red Cross shelter is being set up at the Corning-Painted Post High School Fieldhouse for those in need.

Forecasts predict that the Chemung River in Corning will peak at 23.7 feet, while in Elmira, it is expected to reach 10.5 feet, which is still below the minor flood stage, according to NOAA.

In another part of the state, the weather service has also issued a flash flood warning for Broome County in the Southern Tier, where the moisture-laden remnants of the storm have already started impacting the area.

Broome County has already seen an inch to 1.5 inches of rain, with an additional 1 to 2 inches expected soon. Smaller streams are at capacity, and localized flash flooding is anticipated as new rain begins to fall.

The warning for Broome County is set to last until 1:45 p.m. today. The weather service emphasizes the importance of seeking higher ground during a flood warning and advises against driving through flooded areas, as most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.

With upstate New York under a flood watch, conditions are ripe for rapid runoff into streets and streams, creating a real risk for flash flooding. Weather experts say that today’s rain could further exacerbate the already saturated ground.

Flash floods can quickly rise, and these sudden weather events require immediate action to ensure safety.