Raising awareness of the threat of severe weather in NYC
Know the dangers of flooding and extreme weather in NYC.
Rainfall
Average annual precipitation in NYC is projected to increase by about 4% to 11% by the 2050s (New York City Panel on Climate Change, 2024).
Basement Flooding
Hurricane Ida caused 13 deaths in NYC, and 11 of them were people in basement apartments (Ortega, 2024; ABC7 New York, 2021)
Sea Level Rise
NYC sea level has risen about 1 foot over the last 100 years, and the city projects an additional 8 to 30 inches by the 2050s (Braneon et al., 2024)
Costal Flooding
Under mid-century sea-level-rise projections, four times as many people may be living in NYC’s 100-year floodplain (NOAA, 2014)
What This Means For You
Flooding in New York City happens incredibly quickly. Heavy rain can overwhelm storm drains in minutes, especially in low-elevation neighborhoods and older parts of the city. Streets that look passable can turn into moving water, and your basement can fill before you even realize what’s happening.
Across the city, flooding is worsened by clogged storm drains, old sewer systems, and impervious surfaces that prevent water from soaking into the ground. These conditions make flash flooding faster and more dangerous than people expect.
That’s why preparation matters. Knowing what to do before, during, and after a storm can prevent injuries, reduce damage, and save lives.
Want To Help Out?
Fighting extreme weather is a community effort that requires a multifaceted approach. From helping clear storm drains and checking on neighbors to contacting local representatives, there are many ways to take action.
Learn More About Extreme Weather
New York City faces increasing risks from extreme weather, from flash floods to powerful coastal hurricanes. These challenges reflect a larger trend across the United States, where storms, heat waves, heavy precipitation, and other extreme events are becoming more frequent and severe. Understanding both the local and national impacts of extreme weather is key to spreading the real narrative of climate change and its harmful effects.
