Torrential Rain and Flash Floods Slam U.S. East Coast, Emergency Declared in New York

Download IPFS

Severe weather has battered the U.S. East Coast, with torrential rain and flash floods prompting emergency declarations in New York City and New Jersey. The storm has disrupted travel, stranded drivers, and led officials to urge residents to stay home.

Nearly 50 million people are under flood watches as a slow-moving storm system delivers heavy rainfall across the region. Governors in both New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency, sending state employees home early and warning the public to avoid unnecessary travel.

Airports in New York City such as John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark Liberty International (EWR), experienced significant delays and cancellations. Philadelphia International (PHL), Washington D.C., and Baltimore airports also reported grounded flights. NBC News confirmed all inbound flights to New York’s major airports were temporarily held due to conditions.

Floodwaters shut down parts of the Long Island Expressway in Queens, stranding vehicles and blocking traffic in both directions. Officials warned that subway stations and basements across the city could flood. Residents in basement apartments were urged to move to higher floors, and the Long Island Rail Road suspended service along a key line due to hazardous conditions.

“Stay home this evening unless it’s absolutely necessary for you to go out,” said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, addressing Long Island residents.

In New Jersey, tornado warnings were issued but no confirmed touchdowns occurred. Over 6,000 utility customers lost power due to severe thunderstorms. Parts of Pennsylvania saw up to three inches of rain in an hour, flooding streets in cities like Reading. Maryland and Washington, D.C. also recorded up to four inches of rainfall, with more expected.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued ongoing flood and severe thunderstorm watches across Pennsylvania, forecasting four to six inches of rain in some areas. Officials continue to monitor conditions as the storm system remains active, raising concerns about additional flooding through the weekend.

With saturated ground and overwhelmed drainage systems, residents are advised to remain alert and follow local safety instructions as recovery efforts begin and further rainfall looms.