New York City is facing a dangerous and life-threatening situation as heavy rainfall causes flash flooding across the city. Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency for the city and surrounding areas, urging people to stay indoors and avoid traveling on flooded roads.
The storm has dumped up to five inches of rain in some parts of the city since early Friday, and more is expected throughout the day. The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for about 8.5 million people in the New York City area, as well as parts of New Jersey and Connecticut.
The flooding has severely disrupted the city’s subway system, forcing many stations to close and suspend service. Videos on social media show water gushing from the ceiling and walls of subway stations, and passengers wading through waterlogged platforms. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has advised people to stay home if they do not need to travel.
The streets and highways of the city are also inundated with water, making driving hazardous and trapping some vehicles. At least one terminal at LaGuardia Airport has been closed due to flooding, affecting flights and passengers. The New York Police Department has announced multiple road closures and said the National Guard has been deployed to assist with rescue operations.
The flooding has also affected residential areas, with authorities conducting at least six rescues of people trapped in flooded basements. Mayor Eric Adams has warned residents to move to higher ground if their homes begin to flood, and to be alert and cautious. He said the city is facing a “heightened state of emergency” as the storm continues.
The storm comes less than a month after Hurricane Ida caused deadly flooding and damage in the city and other parts of the northeast. Climate experts say that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming, and that the city’s infrastructure is not prepared to handle them.