Flash flood emergency across New York City and New Jersey on Monday
NEW YORK CITY, New York — On Monday evening, the Northeast was gripped by intense storms and heavy rainfall, triggering life-threatening flash floods across New York City and New Jersey. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for all five boroughs of New York City, later transitioning to a flash flood watch through midnight. Meanwhile, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
In Western Union County, New Jersey, nearly stationary thunderstorms brought flash flooding severe enough to endanger lives. Video circulating on social media showed residents of New Providence, just 10 miles west of Newark, wading through knee-deep water as streets turned to rivers.
Basement apartments under threat
Emergency management officials in New York City issued urgent warnings to residents living in basement units, advising them to be prepared to evacuate immediately. “Flash flooding can happen with little warning, including overnight,” the NYC Emergency Management wrote on X (formerly Twitter), adding that residents should have a phone, flashlight, and Go Bag ready and be prepared to move to higher ground.
Rainfall totals and subway disruptions
As of 7:30 p.m. Monday, rainfall totals in New York City reached 1.67 inches (42 mm) on Staten Island and 1.47 inches (37 mm) in Chelsea, Manhattan, with more rain expected through the night. The National Weather Service had warned earlier in the day that rainfall rates could hit 2 inches (51 mm) per hour, and totals could exceed 3 inches (76 mm) in some areas.
The rainfall severely disrupted transportation across the city. On the subway system, the 1, 2, and 3 trains were suspended in Manhattan due to station flooding, while the E, M, and R lines were also heavily disrupted. The Staten Island Railway was forced to suspend service in both directions in the southern section of the borough.
Major road closures and standing water on highways
The Cross Bronx Expressway was shut down in both directions at Macombs Road due to standing water, while additional water accumulation was reported on FDR Drive and Harlem River Drive, causing major delays during the evening commute.
Air travel snarled by weather chaos
The impact of the storm extended to the skies. Both LaGuardia International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport experienced ground stops due to thunderstorms, as listed on the FAA website. John F. Kennedy Airport issued warnings of potential delays. According to FlightAware, these three airports led in flight cancellations on Monday night, creating significant disruption for travelers across the region.
In Westchester County, located north of New York City, multiple rescues were carried out as vehicles became trapped in floodwaters on roadways. Authorities received “numerous calls” regarding submerged cars, requiring emergency response teams to act swiftly.
By just after 10 p.m., forecasters confirmed that the heaviest rain had moved east of New York City, and that storm intensity was expected to gradually decrease overnight.
