The center of Hurricane Isaias was reportedly picking up speed Tuesday morning as it headed up the East Coast towards the Tri-State area from the Carolinas.
The biggest threats from Isaias — which made landfall down South as a category 1 tropical storm — will be the heavy rainfall and expected wind gusts up to 50 mph.
AccuWeather says the region could get anywhere from 2 to 4 inches of rain. The heaviest rainfall for the New York City area should arrive during the afternoon on Tuesday.
In flood-prone Lower Manhattan, emergency crews set up flood barriers Monday. Restaurants in the city were told to bring inside all outdoor furniture and to secure barriers and platforms for outdoor dining.
A state of emergency has been declared for Isaias in New Jersey. Residents are advised to avoid areas prone to flooding and to park their cars on higher ground if possible.
"During the previous two storms we saw a lot of cars getting stuck in flood waters which were impeding emergency services," said Ravinder Bhalla, Hoboken Mayor.
Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency in New Jersey. He also urged people to stay off the roads.
"Do not attempt to drive into any flood waters," Murphy said. "Turn around and don't drown."
If you absolutely need to travel here are some safety guidelines:
- DO NOT attempt to drive over a flooded road. Turn around and go another way.
- DO NOT underestimate the destructive power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car. Water moving at just 2 miles per hour can sweep a car off a road or bridge.
- Leave early to avoid being marooned on flooded roads.
- Follow recommended routes. DO NOT ignore emergency detours to view flooded areas.
- As you travel, monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local radio broadcasts for the latest information.
- Watch for washed-out roads, earth-slides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires and falling or fallen objects.
- Watch for areas where rivers or streams may suddenly rise and flood, such as highway dips, bridges and low areas.
- If you are in your car and water begins to rise rapidly around you, abandon the vehicle immediately.
Photo: Getty