by Heavy flash flooding swept across the tri-state area on Monday, bringing subway systems to a halt in New York City, submerging roads, and prompting a state of emergency in New Jersey. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, avoid travel, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for all five boroughs of NYC and Nassau County, with alerts in place until midnight. Westchester County and Fairfield County in Connecticut are also under warnings.
Key Developments:
- Subway Disruptions in NYC:
- 1, 2, and 3 trains suspended in Manhattan due to station flooding.
- M and R trains toward Forest Hills experiencing severe delays.
- Videos show water gushing from subway floors and stairwells, turning them into dangerous waterfalls.
- Passengers stranded in subway cars as water poured onto platforms and tracks.
- Road Closures and Dangerous Conditions:
- Taconic State and Saw Mill River Parkways in Westchester County heavily flooded.
- The Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive in Manhattan submerged, with vehicles slowed to 2 mph.
- Drivers on the FDR maneuvered through deep water and counterflowed traffic in some areas.
- Bronx River Parkway and I-287 closed due to impassable conditions.
- New Jersey’s Emergency Measures:
- Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency.
- Residents were urged to remain indoors and avoid nonessential travel.
- Towns like Somerville and Plainsville saw cars and even emergency vehicles overturned by water.
- Connecticut Impact:
- Flood warnings issued for Fairfield County until 12:15 a.m.
- The region is still recovering from historic flooding in August last year, which destroyed roads and caused mudslides.
Emergency Advisories:
NYC Emergency Management warned residents about the deadly nature of flash flooding and provided the following safety guidance:
- Keep emergency Go Bags accessible and exit paths clear.
- Be prepared to move to higher ground, especially if living in basements or low-lying areas.
- Never walk or drive through flood water—“Turn around, don’t drown.”
Authorities across the tri-state area continue to monitor conditions and respond to emergencies as rainfall persists.
