The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for the New York City metropolitan area.

It�s in effect from noon Monday through Tuesday night.

The area covers the city�s five boroughs, Long Island and Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties.

Forecasters say multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms will move across the region ahead of a cold front during the 2-day period.

Heavy downpours totaling 2 to 3 inches could occur through midday Wednesday.

Winds gusts could reach 20 mph – and possibly higher during severe storms.

The city�s buildings department says property owners and contractors must secure their construction sites and buildings.

(AP)