State of Emergency Declared in New York City as Flash Flooding Hits
New York City has declared a state of emergency following strong storms that have brought flash flooding to the area. Subways, streets, and highways have been flooded, and even LaGuardia Airport has had to close one of its terminals. The situation is expected to worsen, with up to seven additional inches of rain forecasted.
Governor Kathy Hochul has urged residents to prioritize their safety, stating, “This is a dangerous, life-threatening storm.” She made the announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter, and declared a state of emergency for New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley. Hochul emphasized the importance of avoiding flooded roads and taking necessary precautions.
Mayor Eric Adams echoed the governor’s warning and urged residents to exercise extreme caution during this time. He highlighted the challenges faced by the city, saying, “Some of our subways are flooded, and it is extremely difficult to move around the city.” Images and videos circulating on social media show residents wading through knee-deep water as they navigate the affected areas.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has advised people to stay home if their travel is not essential. Terminal A at LaGuardia Airport has been closed due to flooding, and passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates before traveling. The New York Police Department has implemented multiple road closures, and the National Guard has been deployed to assist with the emergency response.
Flood warnings and advisories are currently in effect for the New York metropolitan area, affecting approximately 18 million people. The impacted cities extend along the entire East Coast.
As the storm continues, residents are urged to stay informed about changing weather conditions and follow the guidance of local authorities to ensure their safety.