Flood Watch

Tracking flooding across the state

Floods are the most costly natural disaster in NY. As storm frequency and intensity and sea level rise are accelerating throughout the Northeast, we are experiencing more flooding across New York.

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Types of Floods

Riverine

Occurs in areas directly adjacent to rivers, streams, or creeks typically following major precipitation events. Riverine flooding can occur when traditional flood control structures, such as dikes or levees are overtopped.

Coastal

Occurs in areas directly adjacent to coastal waters. There are several distinct causes that include high-tide flooding, storm surge, seiches, and localized wave action.

Shallow

Occurs where there are depressions in the landscape and water doesn’t have anywhere to drain, typically following a major precipitation event. Shallow flooding can occur when stormwater infrastructure is overwhelmed.

A community can be impacted by multiple types of flooding at once and flooding can occur any time of year.

High Tide Flooding

Tides are the regular rise and fall of the sea surface caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun and their position relative to the earth.

High Tide flooding is a type of coastal flooding that occurs on or near new and full moons and at certain times of year. It’s occurring more frequently as sea levels continue to rise and is increasingly disrupting coastal community life. Learn more here.