New York City had its wettest hour on record – and a state of emergency was declared as Storm Ida unleashes flash floods.
Over 80mm of rain fell in Central Park in the span of 60 minutes, eclipsing the previous record of 49mm set following Tropical Storm Henri last month.
At least one person has drowned – and parts of New Jersey and Connecticut are also subject to a flash flood warning.
The National Weather Service‘s Twitter account in New York said: “This emergency was triggered by the life-threatening flash flooding.
The heaviest rains pushed east of the flash flood emergency zone, with more moderate rainfall over the next few hours. “
A state of emergency was declared after the remnants of Storm Ida hit the northeastern United States. Photo: AP
Flights to and from Newark Airport have been canceled and there has been widespread disruption on the railroads.
The Newark Liberty Airport Twitter account said: “We are experiencing severe flooding from the storm tonight.
“All flight activities are currently suspended and travelers are strongly advised to contact their airline for the latest information on flights and resumption of service.
“Passengers are diverted from flooded areas at ground level.”
Vehicles were stranded on a flooded road in Yonkers
Announcing the state of emergency, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said: “I declare a state of emergency in New York tonight.
“We are experiencing a historic weather event tonight with record rains across the city, brutal flooding and dangerous conditions on our roads.
New York’s Penn Station was flooded. Photo: AP
“Please stay off the streets tonight and let our first responders and emergency services do their jobs.
“If you plan to go out, don’t. Avoid subways. Avoid roads. Don’t drive in these heavy waters.
“Stay inside.”
People cruised through heavy rain and flooded walkways at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has called on state agencies to prepare to respond to emergencies.
At least one tornado has hit New Jersey, with social media posts showing houses reduced to rubble by high winds.
When Ida made landfall in Louisiana as a hurricane this weekend, it left the city of New Orleans without power and caused massive damage.
