Heavy rainstorms over New York slowed down N.Y. rescue efforts as 37mm of precipitation were recorded at New York's La Guardia AP. Typically, light rain would help to wash out airborne dust and smoke. Heavy rain and big raindrops, however, are more likely to churn things up.

In any case it added some difficulty and danger to recovery efforts. Rain mixing with soot and dust turned everything slippery and helpers had to be even more cautious while climbing on the crumbled rubble and debris. In addition, the rain will add weight to the already weakened structures. Theoretically 37mm of rain would add an equivalent of 37 kilogramms of extra weight per meter square, if the water would be completely absorbed by the rubble.

However, fair and dry weather is ahead for the coming days with temperatures warming gradually up from 23C to 25C (mid 70ies F) and light winds mainly from northeast will help to push the plume away from Manhatten. At least a tiny bit of good news.

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Observed rainfall at LaGuardia AP
Observed rainfall at Kennedy AP
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