New York flash flood warning: Torrential rain floods roads, disrupts drivers and disrupts flights | Today’s news
Torrential rain and thunderstorms battered New York City on Saturday, prompting flash flood warnings and widespread disruption in five boroughs.
NYC struggles with flash flooding in five boroughs
Heavy downpours began late in the morning, prompting emergency alerts and causing severe flooding on roads and parts of the city. Drivers were trapped on the Clearview Expressway in Queens after floodwaters rose quickly, with officials seen rescuing people from vehicles, some of which were submerged up to their windows.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani said: “Severe thunderstorms are hitting New York City and a flood advisory is in effect for much of the city. Don’t risk your safety in these dangerous conditions.”
The Long Island Expressway was also affected by flooding at 188th Street in Queens, blocking lanes in both directions. The Brooklyn-Queens Expressway was temporarily closed as authorities responded to deteriorating conditions.
The National Weather Service warned of possible heavy rainfall and flash flooding in New York and surrounding areas, with the region facing several rounds of showers and thunderstorms.
Unfavorable weather also disrupted air traffic. The Federal Aviation Administration ordered a ground stop at LaGuardia, John F Kennedy International and Newark airports until at least 5:00 p.m. due to the storms, resulting in passenger delays.
Pea-sized hail was also expected in parts of the city. A special weather warning was issued for all boroughs except the Bronx at 11:25 a.m. as storms moved through the region.
The flooding has also spread to the city’s public transport network, videos show how water enters some metro stations. About 2.5 inches fell in parts of the city, according to reports, while more rain showers were expected for the rest of the day.
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood watch covering New York and nearby areas from Saturday morning into Saturday night, warning that heavy rainfall could lead to isolated and scattered flash flooding.
Authorities urged residents to use caution during the storms, especially on flooded roads, as the weather continued to affect travel around the city.
