EAST COAST, USA — Torrential rains and flash floods battered the U.S. East Coast on Thursday, prompting states of emergency in New York and New Jersey. The storm system brought parts of the region to a standstill, flooding streets and subways, stranding vehicles, and disrupting air and rail travel across several major cities.
Emergency Declarations and Urgent Warnings
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for New York City and surrounding counties, warning of dangerous conditions ahead of the evening commute. “Employers are encouraged to dismiss employees early,” she said on X, urging residents to monitor forecasts and stay indoors.
New Jersey Acting Governor Tahesha Way also declared a state of emergency from 2 p.m. Thursday, citing the risk of flash flooding, severe thunderstorms, and damaging winds. “Remain alert, follow safety protocols, and stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary,” she advised.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams issued a travel advisory through Friday and activated the city’s flash flood emergency plan. “Avoid traveling if you can,” he posted, asking New Yorkers to prepare flood prevention measures at home.
Subways, Roads, Transit Systems Overwhelmed
In New York City, dramatic footage showed water cascading into subway stations — including Grand Central Terminal — and collecting in buses and underground platforms. Several subway lines were suspended, and commuter rail lines to Long Island and New Jersey were halted at rush hour.
The flooding extended beyond NYC:
- Maryland: Dozens of water rescues took place north of Baltimore.
- Pennsylvania: Reading saw flash flooding after 3 inches of rain fell in just one hour.
- Delaware: Amtrak suspended service between Philadelphia and Wilmington due to high water on the tracks.
Flights at major airports across New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. were either delayed or canceled.
Storm Forecast: More Rain and High Winds
The National Weather Service warned of continued flash flood risk through Friday morning, especially in low-lying areas, basements, creeks, and underpasses. Tornado warnings were briefly in effect in New Jersey, although no touchdowns were confirmed.
The storm system is expected to bring:
- High wind gusts
- Hail
- Continued rainfall overnight
- Flood risks into Friday
Power outages affected over 14,000 homes and businesses in New Jersey by Thursday evening.
Zachary Iscol, NYC Emergency Management Commissioner, cautioned that the city could experience “intense rainfall in very short periods,” particularly endangering residents in basement apartments. Emergency shelters were opened in anticipation of worsening conditions.
Context: A Repeating Crisis
This marks the second major flooding event in the region in just two weeks. Earlier storms had already caused significant damage and led to two fatalities in New Jersey.
By Thursday night, large sections of the New York metropolitan area were effectively paralyzed, with most public transport systems inoperable and streets across boroughs underwater.
Authorities remain on high alert, urging residents to stay updated and avoid unnecessary movement.
