Flash Floods Slam Northeast as Storms Trigger Emergencies

Flash flooding swept across parts of the Northeast on Monday evening, as a slow-moving weather front delivered heavy thunderstorms and torrential rain to the Eastern Seaboard. The National Weather Service issued flash flood watches and warnings across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas.

The intense rainfall stranded vehicles, halted subways and flights, and prompted transit delays throughout the region. In New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency and urged residents to avoid travel and stay indoors. Some New Jersey buses and trains experienced significant delays due to waterlogged tracks and roadways.

By late Monday evening, conditions had begun to improve. “It looks like the worst of the storm is behind us, and thankfully, everyone is safe,” said Metuchen Mayor Jonathan M. Busch in a Facebook update, noting widespread flooding throughout the borough.

In New York City, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority temporarily suspended several subway services and reported major delays. The city’s emergency management agency posted alerts on social media warning of flash flooding across multiple boroughs, including the mid-Hudson area.

Social media videos showed water cascading into Manhattan subway stations, submerging platforms. In one image, passengers were seen standing on train seats to avoid rising water. Flooding shut down several major roads, including the northbound lanes of the Saw Mill River Parkway and Cross Bronx Expressway. A downed tree added to the chaos in at least one location.

Westchester County officials coordinated water rescues for motorists trapped in submerged vehicles, according to county executive spokesperson Carolyn Fortino.

Staten Island saw between 4 and 6 inches of rainfall, prompting its flood warning from NYC emergency services.

By 8 p.m., the National Weather Service reported that the heaviest rain had shifted east and was weakening. Cleanup and assessment efforts began as roadways and rail lines reopened. However, authorities cautioned that commuters could face delays on Tuesday morning due to the residual effects of the flooding.