Severe Weather Alert: NYC Faces Flash Flood Warning as NJ Declares Emergency Amid Heavy Rainfall

New Yorkers faced significant challenges recently as heavy rains caused flash flooding across the region. Basement apartment residents were cautioned to prepare for immediate evacuation. In New Jersey, a state of emergency was declared, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

The National Weather Service reported that some areas in Western Union County experienced life-threatening conditions due to stationary storms. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy urged citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported from the downpours in New York City, which began to weaken by late evening.

All five boroughs of New York City were under a flash flood warning, which later expired but raised concerns about continued heavy rainfall. Emergency officials advised those in basement apartments to remain vigilant. They suggested keeping a phone, flashlight, and emergency supplies close by for quick evacuation if necessary.

Videos on social media showed residents wading through knee-deep water in places like New Providence, New Jersey. By late evening, New York City reported significant rainfall, with 1.67 inches recorded in Staten Island and 1.47 inches in Chelsea, underscoring the severity of the storm.

The weather disruptions impacted air travel, leading to numerous flight cancellations at LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airports. Both facilities faced ground stops due to thunderstorms, contributing to long delays.

Roads also suffered from the heavy rains. The Cross Bronx Expressway was closed in both directions due to standing water, and other major routes like FDR Drive and Harlem River Drive experienced severe delays. The subway system was hit hard too, with service disruptions on several lines due to flooding.

Interestingly, extreme weather events like this are becoming more common. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. has seen an increase in heavy rainfall events in recent years, which some experts link to climate change. This pattern raises concerns not just for New York but for urban areas nationwide, where infrastructure struggles to cope with sudden storms.

By just after 10 p.m., the heaviest rain had moved out of the city, but the risk of flooding lingered until conditions improved later that night. As communities brace for similar events in the future, it’s a reminder of the importance of preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of weather extremes.

For more updates on severe weather and safety tips, you can check the National Weather Service or follow local emergency management resources.

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