On 31/7, officials in New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency after the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning along the Northeast urban corridor, stretching from the Washington-Baltimore area to Philadelphia, Wilmington, Delaware, and New York City.
"I am urging all New Yorkers to remain vigilant, stay informed, and exercise caution, as we are expecting heavy rainfall and the potential for flash flooding," New York Governor Kathy Hochul said.
Hochul also warned that heavy rain would occur across New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley, with rainfall potentially exceeding 130 mm per hour.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams also declared a state of emergency, urging residents to seek higher ground. "If you are in a basement apartment and have not already moved to higher ground, please do so now," he wrote on X.
New Jersey also experienced rainfall ranging from 25 to 70 mm, with some localized downpours expected to reach 130 to 175 mm.
Lieutenant Governor Tahesha L. Way, acting governor while Governor Phil Murphy is on vacation with his family, warned that the heavy rainfall could cause landslides and flash floods across the state's roadways, accompanied by strong wind gusts.
"Residents should stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel," she said.
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Heavy rain causes flooding at several subway stations in New York City on 31/7. Photo: AFP |
According to the civilian flight tracking service FlightAware, at least 1,170 flights to or from the US at eight major airports in the Northeast were canceled. Observers suggest that stormy weather appears to be the primary factor causing the disruptions.
Rail service was also affected, with the national railway company Amtrak announcing the suspension of lines between Philadelphia and Wilmington due to rising water flooding the tracks.
Thuy Lam (According to Reuters)
