According to the National Weather Service, a flood watch for all Western New York is in effect beginning today at 2 p.m.
The remnants of Hurricane Sandy will track inland across Pennsylvania and bring a period of heavy rain to much of Western New York and the portions of the Finger Lakes. There is a potential for 1.5 to 2.5 inches of rain from this afternoon through Tuesday morning. This rain will fall on ground which is already saturated from rain this weekend. Rainfall of this magnitude may result in minor flooding of low lying and poor drainage areas. Leaves clogging storm drains will also cause flooding problems in urbanized areas. In addition flooding is possible on some of the area rivers and creeks.
Meanwhile, a high wind warning for Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Erie counties, begins today at 5 p.m. Winds are expected to be 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph.
Strong winds combined with a saturated ground will result in downed trees which can block roadways and take out power lines. It is unusual to get winds this strong from a northerly direction. Trees in this area are anchored against the prevailing west wind so strong winds from the north will produce more wind damage than normal for these wind speeds. Pine trees with their shallow root systems will be most susceptible to being toppled.
