Stable weather conditions have diminished the risks of flash floods in New York and New Jersey.
New York City faced a major disaster on July 31, 2025, as heavy rainfall led to severe flash flooding. The city declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel [1][2][4].
Transportation Disruptions
The city's subway system was heavily affected, with major hubs like Grand Central Terminal and multiple subway stations flooded, forcing the suspension of subway services and causing commuting chaos [2][3][4]. Water cascaded into subway cars and tunnels, flooding tracks and turning stairways into waterfalls. Emergency responders conducted rescues [1][3].
The Long Island Railroad partially suspended service due to flooding, particularly on the Port Washington Branch east of Flushing [3]. Roads were also severely affected, with heavy flooding submerging vehicles, including cars, minibuses, buses, and even a semi-truck on the Clear View Expressway in Queens, leading to stranded commuters and water rescues [1][2][4].
Flight Disruptions
Flight-specific impacts were less detailed, but disruptions at airports and to air traffic are common during such severe weather events. The flooding and state of emergency likely affected airport operations due to ground transportation difficulties and potential runway/taxiway water accumulation.
Weather Conditions
Rainfall rates exceeded 2 inches per hour in some areas, with some reporting up to 6+ inches of rain, intensifying the flooding situation and infrastructure strain [1][3][4]. Downpours are expected to fall at rates of 2 inches (5 centimeters) per hour in New York City [3].
Looking Ahead
As of Thursday evening, more than 800 flights were canceled to and from JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports [4]. Temperatures in New York City are expected to reach around 75°F (24°C) on Friday [3]. Flood watches are in effect from Connecticut to Virginia [1].
References
- NYC Flash Floods: Severe Weather Disrupts Transit, Roads, and Flights
- Flash Flood Emergency Declared in New York City
- Heavy Rain and Flooding Cause Chaos in New York City
- New York City Declares State of Emergency as Heavy Rain Causes Flash Flooding
- The heavy rainfall and resulting flash floods not only disrupted transportation in New York City, but also forced many businesses to temporarily close, causing a significant impact on the local economy.
- Understandably, the local news headlines were dominated by the weather-related events, with general news outlets broadcasting live updates on the flooding situation and rescue operations.
- As travelers scrambled to reschedule their plans amidst the chaos, the weather forecast for the upcoming weekend remained uncertain, with predictions of more rain in the forecast for both Friday and Saturday.
