Torrential rains cause flooding in New York and New Jersey

On Monday night, torrential rain caused by a stationary thunderstorm system led to major flooding in the New York region and the state of New Jersey.

The weather service recorded exceptional rainfall totals, causing significant disruptions to transportation and several rescue operations. In response, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency in several counties, urging residents to stay home. Authorities warned of hazardous traffic conditions and increased risks of flash flooding in densely populated urban areas.

In New York, JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports temporarily suspended departures. The New York subway system was also severely disrupted, with several lines interrupted and stations flooded, particularly in Chelsea and lower Manhattan.

Massive traffic jams paralyzed several of the city’s main arteries. In New Jersey, emergency services intervened numerous times to assist stranded motorists and residents isolated by rising waters, especially in the Newark area. The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that the northern part of the state remains under flood alert until 7:15 am local time. Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania were also affected. A flash flood warning was still in effect in central Virginia on Tuesday, according to the NWS. Local authorities have reported no casualties at this stage.

The weather service reported that some parts of New York received between 38 and 45 millimetres of rain in less than two hours. In New Jersey, rainfall totals reached 150 millimetres locally. Saturated soils and inadequate drainage systems exacerbated the flooding.