New York City and New Jersey have declared states of emergency as a powerful storm batters the US east coast from New York to Washington DC, bringing dangerous heavy rain and flash flooding to the region.
Photos show flooded New York City subway stations, particularly affecting parts of the 6 train line. Forecasters had warned of intense rainfall, with some areas seeing up to 3 inches per hour and isolated spots possibly getting 5 to 8 inches total.
New York officials warned that the downpour could flood streets, subways, and basements, urging basement residents to move to higher floors. They advised people to avoid travel from Thursday afternoon through Friday.
A major Queens highway, the Clearview Expressway, was shut down in both directions after at least two cars were submerged. Long Island’s commuter rail also suspended service on a busy line during rush hour.
In Pennsylvania, flash flooding turned streets into rivers in Reading, with water rising halfway up parked cars. Maryland reported multiple water rescues north of Baltimore. Airports in New York, New Jersey, Washington, and Philadelphia faced major delays and cancellations.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency, warning of flooding risks during the evening commute and urging employers to let workers leave early. New Jersey’s acting governor, Tahesha Way, also declared an emergency, telling residents to stay off roads unless absolutely necessary.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said emergency teams were preparing for possible flooding and landslides. Officials warned that soaked ground and heavy rain could make travel dangerous, especially during the evening rush.
Flash flood warnings were issued for parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York City, and northern New Jersey. Washington and Baltimore were expected to see some of the worst rain, with severe thunderstorm watches in place until evening.
By Thursday night, flash flood and thunderstorm warnings had been lifted in New York.New York City has issued a travel advisory for Thursday and Friday, with a flood watch taking effect Thursday afternoon. Mayor Eric Adams urged residents in a social media post: “Prepare for a severe storm. Stay off the roads if possible and take flood prevention measures now.”
Zachary Iscol, New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner, warned that the storm could dump heavy rainfall in a short time. NYCEM has already activated its flash flood emergency plan.
This comes just two weeks after powerful storms battered parts of the Northeast, flooding New York City subways and claiming two lives in New Jersey.
