Heavy rain, flash floods hit NYC and New Jersey; state of emergency declared

A state of emergency has been declared in New York City and New Jersey as severe thunderstorms bring heavy rain and flash flooding from NYC to Washington, DC. In New York, flash flooding briefly closed major roadways, delayed flights across the region, and inundated train stations throughout the metropolitan area just as the evening rush hour approached.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the emergency in a post on X: “Due to heavy rain and potential flooding, New York City and the surrounding counties are under a state of emergency. Be alert. Be safe. Be smart. We’ll get through this.”

She had earlier warned: “Heavy rain and potential flooding are expected to affect the evening commute. Employers are encouraged to dismiss employees early. Continue to monitor your local forecasts, and stay safe.”

The city has already seen significant impacts, with highways inundated, transit delays mounting, and emergency crews responding to multiple flood-related incidents.

A section of the Clearview Expressway in Queens, near Northern Boulevard, was submerged Thursday afternoon, stranding a semi-truck and three cars.

Emergency crews from the FDNY and NYPD rushed to the scene around 2:45 p.m. after reports of people trapped inside the vehicles. According to the FDNY, all occupants made it out safely, though it remains unclear whether they escaped on their own or were rescued.

Forecasters are warning of intense downpours, with rainfall rates potentially hitting 3 inches per hour. While most areas will likely see 1 to 3 inches, some spots could be hit with as much as 5 to 8 inches.

In New Jersey, Acting Governor Tahesha Way also declared a state of emergency effective at 2 pm Thursday, citing the risk of flash flooding, strong storms, and damaging wind gusts. “I urge all New Jerseyans to remain alert, follow all safety protocols, and monitor the proper channels for the duration of these storms,” Way said, advising residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

The saturated ground, combined with heavy rain, heightens the threat of flash floods, rockslides, and landslides—particularly dangerous during the evening rush hour.

Storm conditions began early Thursday afternoon and are expected to persist into the night. In response, New York City issued a travel advisory for both Thursday and Friday and placed a flood watch into effect Thursday afternoon.

“Be prepared for a serious storm,” NYC Mayor Eric Adams posted online. “Avoid travelling if you can, and set up any flood prevention tools in advance.”