A powerful storm system unleashed historic downpours across the Northeast US on Monday evening, causing severe flash flooding in New York City, New Jersey, and neighboring states. It dumped a staggering 2.07 inches of rain in one hour, making it New York’s second-wettest hour on record, second only to 2021’s Hurricane Ida.
The torrential rain drowned subways—stations like 28th Street in Manhattan took on water—forcing the suspension of the 1, 2, 3 lines, and delaying service on the M and R lines in Queens. Major roads like the Saw Mill River Parkway and Cross Bronx Expressway were shut due to flooding, and airports including JFK, LaGuardia, Newark, and Reagan National experienced ground stops and over 1,000 flight disruptions.
In New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency across all 21 counties after towns like North Plainfield, Somerville, and Metuchen were swamped with up to 5–7 inches of rain, prompting rescue operations and even a house collapse due to flood-related explosions.
Flood warnings affected 44 million people across nine states from Virginia to New York, with flash flood watches expanded along the I‑95 corridor, including DC, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. In Mount Joy, PA, emergency services conducted 16 water rescues after over 7 inches of rain hit in under five hours.
Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported so far. Authorities urge people to stay indoors, follow emergency orders, and avoid flooded roads. While the heaviest rain has passed, additional storms are expected, though less intense. Emergency services and cleanup crews remain on alert as recovery begins.