On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, nearly 1,000 flights were cancelled at John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport due to severe weather conditions affecting the New York City metropolitan area.
The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch covering New York City, Long Island, the Hudson Valley, much of Connecticut, northern New Jersey, and eastern Pennsylvania as slow-moving thunderstorms brought heavy rain and flash flooding. New York City, Long Island, and the Mid-Hudson region face a moderate risk of excessive rainfall, while surrounding areas carry slight to marginal flood threats.
Rainfall forecasts predict widespread totals
of 2 to 5 inches, with isolated downpours dropping 2 to 3 inches within an hour. Some areas in the Catskills region could receive 6 to 8 inches of rain in just a few hours, heightening flooding risks across the region.
Official Warnings and Emergency Advisories
New York Governor Kathy Hochul warned residents about the prolonged rain event and potential for flash flooding. She urged vigilance with local weather updates and advised against driving through flooded roads, emphasizing: “When in doubt, turn around, don’t drown.”
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani encouraged preparation for dangerous weather, highlighting that even brief intense rainfall could trigger flash
flooding in vulnerable neighborhoods.
The New York City Emergency Management Department advised residents to allow extra travel time and avoid flooded roads, underpasses, and low-lying areas as hazardous travel conditions prevail.
Storm Background and Regional Vulnerability
The storm system responsible for the severe weather across the New York metropolitan area earlier impacted the Midwest, where it caused tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, power outages, and flight disruptions.
New York remains particularly sensitive to heavy rain after deadly flooding caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida in 2021. Authorities warned that ongoing rain and flash flooding could create similarly dangerous conditions as the storm progresses.
Traveler Disruptions and Flight Suspensions
The severe
weather forced nearly 1,000 flight cancellations across JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports on July 28, affecting thousands of passengers. Airlines suspended hundreds of departures as storm conditions intensified.
Officials indicated that additional flight cancellations and delays are possible while the storm system continues to impact the region. Travelers were urged to allow extra time for transit given flooded roads and hazardous conditions throughout the metropolitan area.
