NYC flooding – live: Damage assessed after state of emergency declared

New York has “officially transitioned into the recovery phase” after Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency following historic rainfall and flash flooding, officials said over the weekend.

The governor’s declaration came as torrential rain pummelled the northeastern US, her pleas for residents to stay home echoed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who’d also asked New Yorkers to shelter in place.

Most people heeded the call, the governor said Saturday – though at least 28 rescues were conducted by New York emergency services, she said.

Brooklyn was particularly hard hit by rising water with shocking videos showing streets and subways underwater, and one hospital forced to evacuate more than 150 patients after electrical damage forced its temporary closure. Widespread outages and delays were reported on the MTA, the agency that runs the city’s transit system, before it returned to full weekend service on Saturday.

Historic rainfall levels were recorded at locations from LaGuardia Airport to Central Park, where a sea lion named Sally gained viral video fame “after briefly exploring the flooded plaza inside the zoo,” officials said.

Key Points

• Worst of deluge hit during Friday morning rush hour

• Up to eight inches of rain could fall across city on Friday

• Disruption across New York Subway

• Streets across Brooklyn flooded with water as New Yorkers told not to travel

• Governor Kathy Hochul declares state of emergency

• Mayor Eric Adams tells New Yorkers to stay home or shelter in place if at work or school

• New York City flooding linked to climate change

• New York becomes the latest state to require flood disclosures in home sales

Storm-affected residents urged to report damage

19:58 , Sheila Flynn

Damage assessments continued Sunday after historic rainfall throughout the Northeast as state and city officials urged residents to officially report problems.

“Please share: If your home or property or street experienced damage, you can request service AND we also need. you to submit a damage report so we can fully assess the weather event’s impact to collect data,” NYC Emergency Management posted Saturday on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Reporting damage, the agency continued, “can help you get repairs faster, and helps NYC know where the worst damage occurred. Data is used by city to determine funding for recovery.”

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said on Saturday morning that she’d spoken “with the White House yesterday, and I spoke with majority leader [Sen Chuck] Schumer, who contacted me immediately.

“They’re prepared to support an emergency declaration, a declaration of disaster, from the federal government, if necessary. There is a threshold that has to be met – $30m worth of damage ...it’ll take a number of weeks for us to add up and calculate that.”

A spokeswoman for NYC Mayor Eric Adams told The Independent on Saturday that “we are in the process of assessing the damage.”

Two Red Cross shelters still operational Sunday

18:16 , Sheila Flynn

The Red Cross continued to operate two shelters Sunday opened to accommodate affected residents after Friday’s downpours and flooding, a spokesman told The Independent.

The organization, in coordination with local county offices of emergency management, opened shelters at Mamaroneck High School in Westchester and New Hyde Park Memorial High School in Nassau County on Long Island.

“I think we’re looking at how the population is adjusting, and I’m not sure what our plans are going forward,” the Red Cross spokesman said Sunday morning. “As long as people need them, we’ll still have them.”

The Red Cross was providing refuge for 11 residents on Long Island on Sunday and 10 in Westchester County. In addition to supporting shelters, Red Cross teams were “canvassing communities to assess damage and distribute cleanup kits,” GNY Red Cross posted on Saturday.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Saturday during a news conference that had no deaths had been reported during the storm, while 28 rescues had been made by emergency services. Police departments from other affected areas such as New Jersey were also posting footage of rescues as fast-moving floods overtook communities on Friday.

Officials were continuing to assess the damage on Sunday.

Emergency officials detail rescue team, equipment deployments

17:07 , Sheila Flynn

The New York State Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Services deployed myriad resources amid Friday’s historic flooding, including 12 pumps from the DHSES stockpile sent to NYC for pre-staging, authorities said.

Another six pumps were sent to pump-out of the fuel yard of LaGuardia Airport, which recorded historic rain amounts.on Friday, NYSDHSES shared on social media.

The agency also deployed its Office of Fire Prevention and Control Waqter Rescue teams to assist residents who found themselves in trouble as flash floods swept the region. The agency posted images of the rescue of a woman in New Rochelle and said teams were assisting emergency services Friday in Westchester County and other areas.

On Saturday, DHSES also reminded social media users that 30 September marked the end of National Preparedness Month, urging Americans to take precautions such as developing an emergency plan for the whole family and building an emergency kit.

15:55 , Sheila Flynn

A perhaps unexpected consequence of Friday’s historic rainfall and flooding may seem contradictory, at first glance – with fires reportedly cropping up across Manhattan.

“Among the sights one might expect during a flood – floating trash bags, gushing toilets, subway waterfalls – street fires might not be high on the list,” New York Magazine posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, in the wake of the deluges..

“And yet, several are popping up throughout the city, most of which appear to be manhole fires,” the magazine’s account posted, along with accompanying blaze footage.

Will Anderson, a Brooklyn resident who observed one such fire and shared footage with Curbed.com, told the outlet: “I saw all the smoke outside my window, and all these firetrucks, so I thought an apartment was on fire.

“When I saw it on the street, me and my friend went and got breakfast in case it exploded.”

The FDNY did not immediately return a request for comment Sunday from The Independent.

More than 150 patients transferred from Brooklyn hospital before temporary closure

12:30 , Sheila Flynn

More than 150 patients, including 17 in intensive care, were transferred out of Brooklyn’s Woodhull Hospital on Saturday before the facility closed down to fix electrical damage, CBS reported.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams had earlier in the day held a press conference regarding the power issues, outlining the multi-agency response as it continued to transfer the remaining few dozen patients.

“There was an energy outage and the hospital was running on emergency backups, and as soon as those started to run out the hospital had to close down and evacuate the patients who were in the hospital to go to sister hospitals,” City Councilman Chi Osse told CBS.

The councilman said the hospital and Con Edison were working diligently to restore full power at the facility, located within his constituency.

“Yesterday’s storm rally shined a light on our crumbling infrastructure, not just my district, but Brooklyn,” he said. “Woodhull Hospital is a hospital in deep need of investment.”

NJ police video shows Friday water rescue of motorist

10:30 , Sheila Flynn

Footage of rushing waters – and subsequent rescues – continued to circulate on social media over the weekend after record-breaking rainfall sparked flooding on Friday through New York and other parts of the Northeast.

In one particularly poignant video from the Fairfield Police Department of Essex County, New Jersey, Corporal Steven D’Argenio can be seen freeing a motorist trapped in a car in a parking lot on Passaic Avenue.

“Please understand this flooding is serious,” the department wrote in a Friday Facebook,post, adding: “Do not drive into flooded waters or around barricades. If you find yourself trapped, stay calm and dial 911.”

More than two dozen rescues were made on Friday during heavy rainfall that flooded regions of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, according to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The governor held a press conference in New York City on Saturday following “historic” rainfall levels one day earlier.

“I want to thank all the first responders who did show up, including our Swift Water teams who made 28 rescues – 28 rescues in raging waters to help save New Yorkers in the Hudson Valley and on Long Island yesterday,” she said.

Images capture workers’ tireless cleanup efforts

08:02 , Sheila Flynn

Pictures were emerging on Saturday of ongoing cleanup efforts amidst tireless work by city staff and residents to recover from Friday’s flooding.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul repeatedly thanked workers, posting images on X, the platform formerly known as twitter, with an accompanying message.

“Union labor keeps New York running every day no matter the challenge!” the Democratic governor wrote. “ I’m especially grateful to the first responders and state and local government employees for getting us through this historic rainfall.”

Damage assessments were also continuing, with the governor saying Saturday that federal aid had not been ruled out. Record rainfall amounts Friday were observed at locations from JFK and LaGuardia Airports to Central Park, according to the National Weather Service.

Zoos reopen following sea lion’s brief viral fame

05:45 , Sheila Flynn

Various New York zoo locations had safely reopened on Friday after one City resident – a sea lion – made headlines during Friday’s heavy rains and flooding.

A sea lion named Sally at the Central Park Zoo on Friday “was able to swim out of her pool due to flooding of the plaza caused by severe rains in New York City,” Jim Breheny, director of the Bronx Zoo and Executive Vice President of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Zoos and Aquarium, said in a statement.

He posted on X that, after “briefly exploring the flooded plaza inside the zoo, sea lion Sally returned to the enclosure, the flood waters receded & all is well @centralparkzoo w/ our sea lions all safely content in their exhibit.”

A spokeswoman for the zoo on Saturday told The Independent that “three of our Wildlife Conservation Society zoos – Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo and Queens Zoo – and our NY Aquarium reopened today.”

Prospect Park Zoo remained closed Saturday, she added.

NY Sanitation officials clearing debris from ‘catch basins across the City’

03:33 , Sheila Flynn

Cleanup efforts were continuing throughout Saturday in the New York region after “historic” rainfall one day earlier led to flash flooding and other challenges.

NYC Sanitation authorities on Saturday evening posted on X, the platform formerly known as twitter, that they were “clearing storm debris from catchbasins across the City.”

“Collection is ongoing, and storm-impacted residents may place material at the curb as needed,” NYC Sanitation posted, along with accompanying photos.

Various New York residents responded to the post, including New York State Assembly Member Khaleel M. Anderson, who represents Queens, who posted photo and video of “a few that need this support in my district.”

Hospital electrical damage in Brooklyn prompts transfer of patients

Saturday 30 September 2023 23:43 , Sheila Flynn

Electrical damage caused by Friday flooding at Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn forced the transfer and evacuation of patients and staff, authorities said Saturday.

“Yesterday, @NYCHealthSystem-Woodhull’s electrical system suffered damage as a result of flooding,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams posted Saturday evening on X, the platform formerly known as twitter. “The hospital was able to switch to back-up power, and service to patients continued under the close, watchful eye of medical professionals.

“But as repairs continue, we need to transfer patients to other @NYCHealthSystem hospitals. We’ve moved swiftly, with only 50 patients left to be moved. We immediately notified patients and families.

“We can report these New Yorkers are in the best care with no major issues,” the mayor wrote. “I thank our frontline workers for making sure this process is as smooth as possible.”

New York officially transitions to ‘recovery phase'

Saturday 30 September 2023 21:34 , Sheila Flynn

New York officials on Saturday said they had “officially transitioned into the recovery phase” following “historic” rainfall on Friday throughout the Northeast.

“Our teams remain fully engaged on the ground, rigorously working to restore essential services and evaluate the full scope of the damage to infrastructure and buildings. Emergency Management is actively coordinating with our partners to execute emergency plans that encompass operations like debris management, addressing downed trees, damage assessments, sheltering, and community outreach,” an Emergency Management spokeswoman said in an email to The Independent.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said on Saturday morning that she’d spoken “with the White House yesterday, and I spoke with majority leader [Sen Chuck] Schumer, who contacted me immediately,” the governor said. “They’re prepared to support an emergency declaration, a declaration of disaster, from the federal government, if necessary. There is a threshold that has to be met – $30m worth of damage ...it’ll take a number of weeks for us to add up and calculate that.”

A spokeswoman for NYC Mayor Eric Adams told The Independent on Saturday that “we are in the process of assessing the damage.”

Governor calls bus drivers ‘true heroes’ during storm

Saturday 30 September 2023 19:30 , Sheila Flynn

Lessons learned from previous storms helped avert disaster Friday as the New York region faced torrential downpours and flooding, officials said – but the governor particularly called out bus drivers for the heroic part they played in the day’s events.

“At one time, during the storm, we had 4300 buses on the roads at the peak –about 3500 a little bit later in the day,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Saturday. “What these buses did, and these brave bus drivers, the bus operators were able to give an alternative, a lifeline, to people who otherwise would have been stranded. The last thing we want ever is for someone to be stranded in a tunnel. That is frightening.

“So when things are starting to look bad, the trains are being pulled back into the station, passengers discharged, well what happens then? Where do they go? And that’s something we dealt with literally by the minute yesterday, making sure there were buses in place, enough operators called in to service them, to make sure we could keep it going, as well.

“So these bus drivers were the true heroes,” she said. “They drove into water not knowing what was on the other side; they knew their job was to get people to the next destination safely. And they did an extraordinary job – 99% of the bus routes continued during the storm.”

Governor details 28 rescues amid ‘historic’ rainfall

Saturday 30 September 2023 17:47 , Sheila Flynn

More than two dozen rescues were made on Friday during heavy rainfall that flooded regions of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, according to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul.

The governor held a press conference in New York City on Saturday following “historic” rainfall levels one day earlier.

“I want to thank all the first responders who did show up, including our Swift Water teams who made 28 rescues – 28 rescues in raging waters to help save New Yorkers in the Hudson Valley and on Long Island yesterday,” she said. “And thousands of utility crews have also been on standby, ready to keep our state moving.”

The governor announced during the press conference that full weekend MTA service had been restored thanks to workers’ diligent efforts under challenging conditions.

“There are some New Yorkers who’ve never seen the likes of which we experienced yesterday in their entire lives,” she said. “This event was historic, in some areas was record-shattering, and it is the most rain ever recorded in a single day in a place like JFK ever – not just this summer, not this year, but ever.

“And the record is still coming in,” she said. “We’re still monitoring, the rain is still falling. And it’s such in some places, it’ll be the most rain that has ever hit in 70 years.”

NWS: ‘Lingering rain’ expected before ‘tapering off from west to east:’

Saturday 30 September 2023 17:11 , Sheila Flynn

The National Weather Service on Saturday shared a graphic showing residual rain in the same region where Friday flooding plagued much of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

“There is lingering rain moving across much of the region as indicated here with our Doppler Radar imagery late this morning,” NWS New York NY posted on X, the platform previously known as Twitter. “The rain will be mostly light and is expected to last into this afternoon before tapering off from west to east.”

In a late-night Friday update, the account advised social media users that Flood Watch had been cancelled for “all locations except New Haven County Connecticut and Suffolk County New York.”

Before the end of Friday, new daily rainfall records had already been set at JFK Airport, Central Park, LaGuardia Airport and Bridgeport Airport, according to the NWS.

Transit, city services returning to normal after flooding

Saturday 30 September 2023 15:51 , Sheila Flynn

New York transit problems caused by Friday’s flooding had been almost entirely fixed by Saturday morning, with most lines back up and running the previous evening, an MTA spokesman told The Independent.

Subways had largely resumed normal function by about 9pm Friday, with further flooding problems to the N line servicing Brooklyn fixed by 5am Saturday, he said. MetroNorth lines had also resumed following diligent efforts of workers – “basically, just waiting for the water to recede, just having crews help do that process,” he said. “Buses, thankfully, did not get heavily impacted.”

The spokesman said Long Island Rail Road lines were the “same deal” after “two little hiccups” on routes closer to the water.

Meanwhile, NYC sanitation officials urged Bronx residents to bring hazardous items to a previously scheduled safe disposal event on Saturday in the Bronx, tweeting after the floods Friday that rubbish collection was ongoing and the department would “provide additional services as needed, including collecting storm debris and material that comes out of flooded homes.”

Saturday 30 September 2023 13:45 , Kelly Rissman

Sea lion breaks free from pool at Central Park Zoo

“Zoo staff monitored the sea lion as she explored the area before returning to the familiar surroundings of the pool and the company of the other two sea lions. The water levels have receded, and the animals are contained in their exhibit.”

Jim Breheny, Director of the Bronx Zoo and Executive Vice President of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Zoos and Aquarium reported that no visitors or staff members were in danger and the sea lion never escaped the zoo.

“We had closed our four zoos and aquarium this morning so staff could focus on the animals and our facilities during the storm. Animal care staff will continue to monitor the situation through the duration of the weather event,” he added.

Read more

Sea lion breaks free at Central Park Zoo during terrifying New York City floods

Saturday 30 September 2023 12:30 , Kelly Rissman

Subway system suspended

Half the New York subway system was suspended due to flooding and delays remained widespread on Friday afternoon. Commuter rail across the tri-state areas was suffering delays and cancellations due to impacts, The Independent’s Louise Boyle reports.

Janno Lieber, head of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, said 3,500 buses were operating for those who needed to get around. But even those were not immune: video posted online showed one bus in Brooklyn traveling through flooding with a submerged floor.

Saturday 30 September 2023 11:30 , Kelly Rissman

WATCH: Shelter in place and state of emergency issued in New York over flash flood warning

Saturday 30 September 2023 10:30 , Kelly Rissman

Just how much rain was NYC dealing with?

As much as 6.7 inches (17 cm) of rain had fallen in parts of Brooklyn by midday, with at least one spot seeing 2.5 inches (6 centimeters) in a single hour, according to weather and city officials.

The 6 inches (15 cm) of rain at John F. Kennedy Airport surpassed a record set during Hurricane Donna in September 1960, the National Weather Service said.

The torrential downpour caused travel mayhem, submerging subway stations, causing flight delays, and even putting cars and bikes mostly under water.

Saturday 30 September 2023 09:30 , Kelly Rissman

Flashback: Hurricane Ida floods New York in 2021

In pictures: Chaos after New York and New Jersey storms

Saturday 30 September 2023 08:30 , Kelly Rissman

All rain, no storm surge

“What’s frightening about this flooding on the FDR is that ALL OF THIS WATER IS FROM RAIN. There was no storm surge today. Zero. In the coming storms, we’ll get massive rain plus a storm surge and the border between the river and the land will disappear,” NYU Professor Eric Klinenberg pointed out in response to a shocking video of a highway in NYC.

Saturday 30 September 2023 07:30 , Kelly Rissman

A message from the governor

Saturday 30 September 2023 06:30 , Kelly Rissman

NYC’s flooding is linked to climate change

Three to six inches of rain have fallen with several more on the way in the next 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Some forecasters warned the flooding has the potential to be “historic”.

Forecasters said rainfall was coming down at a rate of one to 2.5 inches an hour in some places.

From 8am to 9am, the Brooklyn Navy Yard received 2.58 inches of rain, said Rohit Aggarwala, from New York’s Department of Environmental Protection, at a Friday press briefing. The city’s sewer system was built to handle 1.75 inches.

“This is the result of climate change. Our climate is changing faster than our infrastructure can respond,” Mr Aggarwala said.

Read the full story here

New York flooding chaos is result of climate crisis, city official warns

Saturday 30 September 2023 05:30 , Kelly Rissman

The dangers of the downpour extends to Long Island

Saturday 30 September 2023 04:33 , Kelly Rissman

29 September is poised to be the wettest day on record at JFK

Three to six inches of rain had fallen by Friday morning with several more on the way in the next 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Some forecasters warned the flooding has the potential to be “historic”.

“Today is now preliminarily the wettest September day on record at JFK Airport, eclipsing the record from Hurricane Donna in 1960,” NWS tweeted, noting that 6.08inches of rain had fallen since midnight. The previous record was 5.83 inches.

Read more

New York City declares state of emergency

Saturday 30 September 2023 03:30 , Kelly Rissman

Photos of the floods

The Independent captured shocking photos of the floods that are keeping locals indoors and submerging vehicles.

Saturday 30 September 2023 02:33 , Kelly Rissman

WATCH: Transportation disrupted in NYC due to the downpour

Saturday 30 September 2023 01:33 , Kelly Rissman

New York requires flood disclosures in home sales as natural disasters worsen in the state

Ahead of today’s flooding, Gov Kathy Hochul last week signed a bill requiring people selling their homes to disclose whether their properties have been flooded or are at risk for future flooding.

The new law comes as inland areas in the state have become more vulnerable to flooding, with climate change spurring on rising sea levels and more intense storms like the one impacting the city on Friday

The signing will make New York at least the 30th state in the country to require flood disclosures during home sales. New York has a similar law in place for rental properties.

The Independent’s Louise Boyle has the full story.

New York is latest state to require flood disclosures in home sales as storms worsen

Saturday 30 September 2023 00:33 , Kelly Rissman

Flight misery at New York airports

As of Friday afternoon, 283 flights were cancelled at LaGuardia Airport and 377 were delayed, according to FlightAware.

The situation is even worse at JFK, where 203 flights were cancelled and 416 flights were delayed.

Saturday 30 September 2023 00:00 , Kelly Rissman

Metro North riders urged to leave earlier in the day

Friday 29 September 2023 23:45 , Kelly Rissman

Mayor Adams under fire for rain response

Mayor Eric Adams urged New Yorkers to stay home or “shelter in place” if they had already gone out to work or school. He warned that the city could see eight inches of rain before the storm passes.

Once again, the mayor came under fire after he did not speak publicly to New Yorkers until late Friday morning when conditions were already dire. Mr Adams had been criticized in June for his handling of New York’s air quality threat from Canada’s wildfires.

Read the full story

New York City declares state of emergency

Friday 29 September 2023 22:45 , Kelly Rissman

WATCH: Flash flooding causes chaos in New York City

Friday 29 September 2023 22:33 , Kelly Rissman

A different view of the storms

Friday 29 September 2023 22:15 , Kelly Rissman

Sea lion breaks free from pool at Central Park Zoo

“Zoo staff monitored the sea lion as she explored the area before returning to the familiar surroundings of the pool and the company of the other two sea lions. The water levels have receded, and the animals are contained in their exhibit.”

Jim Breheny, Director of the Bronx Zoo and Executive Vice President of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Zoos and Aquarium reported that no visitors or staff members were in danger and the sea lion never escaped the zoo.

“We had closed our four zoos and aquarium this morning so staff could focus on the animals and our facilities during the storm. Animal care staff will continue to monitor the situation through the duration of the weather event,” he added.

Read more

Sea lion breaks free from Central Park Zoo in terrifying NYC floods

Friday 29 September 2023 22:00 , Kelly Rissman

NYC in state of emergency as rain submerges the city

Friday 29 September 2023 21:45 , Kelly Rissman

Superfund site hazard

A scientist posted on X to remind New Yorkers to avoid entering the floodwater near Gowanus Canal — it is a contaminated site that contains hazardous materials, the EPA says.

Friday 29 September 2023 21:33 , Kelly Rissman

Hourly precipitation in NYC

Friday 29 September 2023 21:15 , Kelly Rissman

WATCH: New York underwater amid flash flood warning

Flashback: Hurricane Ida floods New York in 2021

Friday 29 September 2023 21:00 , Kelly Rissman

In pictures: Chaos after New York and New Jersey storms

Friday 29 September 2023 20:45 , Kelly Rissman

NYC zoos are closed, due to flooding

Friday 29 September 2023 20:27 , Kelly Rissman

New York requires flood disclosures in home sales as natural disasters worsen in the state

Ahead of today’s flooding, Gov Kathy Hochul last week signed a bill requiring people selling their homes to disclose whether their properties have been flooded or are at risk for future flooding.

The new law comes as inland areas in the state have become more vulnerable to flooding, with climate change spurring on rising sea levels and more intense storms like the one impacting the city on Friday

The signing will make New York at least the 30th state in the country to require flood disclosures during home sales. New York has a similar law in place for rental properties.

The Independent’s Louise Boyle has the full story.

New York is latest state to require flood disclosures in home sales as storms worsen

Friday 29 September 2023 20:15 , Kelly Rissman

Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency across New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley, warning locals: “Plan your escape route. Don’t wait until water is over your knees before you leave. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Forecasters said the expected rainfall rate is between 1-2.5 inches in the space of an hour in some areas. Between 8am and 9am, the Brooklyn Navy Yard received 2.58 inches of rain, said Rohit Aggarwala from New York’s Department of Environmental Protection. The city’s sewer system was built to handle 1.75 inches.

“This is the result of climate change. Our climate is changing faster than our infrastructure can respond,’” Mr Aggarwala said. On a hotter planet, more moisture is held in the atmosphere meaning that storms have a greater likelihood of bringing intense rainfall.

The Independent’s Louise Boyle has the full story.

New York City declares state of emergency

Friday 29 September 2023 20:00 , Kelly Rissman

Mayor Eric Adams said this is “a time for extreme caution”

The NYC mayor warned residents: “If you are home, stay home. If you are at work or school, shelter in place for now.” He outlined that transportation has been affected; some subway stations are flooded and some airports are experiencing heavy delays.

Friday 29 September 2023 19:51 , Kelly Rissman

WATCH: The heavy rain has seeped the city’s transportation

Friday 29 September 2023 19:30 , Kelly Rissman

Photos of the floods

The Independent captured shocking photos of the floods that are keeping locals indoors and submerging vehicles.

Friday 29 September 2023 19:15 , Kelly Rissman

Flash flood warning for Queens and Brooklyn is set to end at 2.30pm

Friday 29 September 2023 18:58 , Kelly Rissman

NYC’s flooding is linked to climate change

Three to six inches of rain have fallen with several more on the way in the next 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Some forecasters warned the flooding has the potential to be “historic”.

Forecasters said rainfall was coming down at a rate of one to 2.5 inches an hour in some places.

From 8am to 9am, the Brooklyn Navy Yard received 2.58 inches of rain, said Rohit Aggarwala, from New York’s Department of Environmental Protection, at a Friday press briefing. The city’s sewer system was built to handle 1.75 inches.

“This is the result of climate change. Our climate is changing faster than our infrastructure can respond,” Mr Aggarwala said.

Read the full story

New York flooding chaos is result of climate crisis, city official warns

Friday 29 September 2023 18:38 , Kelly Rissman

“If people decide to venture out in a vehicle, they do so at their own peril”

New York Gov Kathy Hochul sent out a warning message on Friday afternoon, urging New Yorkers to stay home if possible.

Watch the full video message:

Latest in series of floods across northeastern US

Friday 29 September 2023 18:30 , AP

The deluge came less than three months after a storm caused deadly floods in New York’s Hudson Valley and left Vermont’s capital, Montpelier, submerged. A little over two years ago, the remnants of Hurricane Ida dropped record-breaking rain on the Northeast and killed at least 13 people in New York City, most of whom were in flooded basement apartments. Overall, 50 people died from Virginia to Connecticut.

Watch: Flooded Prospect Expressway seen from Kensington

Friday 29 September 2023 18:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch: Flooding in Bushwick, Brooklyn

Friday 29 September 2023 17:50 , Oliver O'Connell

Friday 29 September 2023 17:37 , Kelly Rissman

The flash flood warning for Manhattan the Bronx continues

Full story: New York declares state of emergency as flash flooding leaves parts of city underwater

Friday 29 September 2023 17:30 , Louise Boyle

Large swaths of New York were underwater on Friday morning as torrential rainfall caused flash flooding across the city.

A severe storm lodged over the city on Thursday night, leaving the five boroughs and parts of upstate New York, New Jersey and Connecticut under flood watches and warnings.

New Yorkers were urged not to travel as the subway system largely shut down in the conditions, and vehicles were trapped by rising waters.

Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency across New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley due to the extreme rainfall. She said that officials were worried about basement homes, during an interview on Friday, after a number of people drowned during Hurricane Ida in 2021.

“Plan your escape route. Don’t wait until water is over your knees before you leave. Don’t wait until it’s too late,” Gov Hochul said.

New York City declares state of emergency

Friday 29 September 2023 17:10 , Oliver O'Connell

Friday 29 September 2023 17:04 , Oliver O'Connell

Zach Iscol, the commissioner of New York City’s Office of Emergency Management said that today “is the wettest day we’ve had since Hurricane Ida swept this city” two years ago.

“This changing weather pattern is the result of climate change,” said Rohit Aggarwala, commissioner of the city’s Department of Environmental Protection.

HE added that the weather is “changing faster than our infrastructure can withstand”.

Recovering transportation a priority

Friday 29 September 2023 17:02 , Oliver O'Connell

Governor Kathy Hochul described the storm as a “life-threatening rainfall event” and stressed that getting the transportation system back up and running was a priority.

New Yorkers reminded not to drive in floodwater

Friday 29 September 2023 16:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Just 12 inches of water can carry away a car and 18-24 inches can move a large SUV.

Mayor warns New Yorkers to exercise ‘extreme caution’ as dangerous weather is not over

Friday 29 September 2023 16:52 , Oliver O'Connell

Mayor Eric Adams said at a news briefing with Governor Kathy Hochul that he was issuing a state of emergency for New York City.

He warned New Yorkers to exercise “extreme caution” and stay home or to “shelter in place” if they were at work or school.

“We could possibly see 8 inches of rain before the day is over,” Mayor Adams warned.

“This is a dangerous weather condition and it is not over and I don’t want those gaps in heavy rain to give the appearance that it is over.”

The mayor said he has already visited some of the worst-hit parts of Brooklyn and encouraged residents to assist in helping clear clogged drains.

Friday 29 September 2023 16:50 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch: Basement floods in Williamsburg

Friday 29 September 2023 16:40 , Oliver O'Connell

No Metro-North trains between Manhattan and Bronx

Friday 29 September 2023 16:38 , Oliver O'Connell

Metro-North Railroad, which links Manhattan with the Bronx, Connecticut, and Westchester County, has announced that there is no service on its three lines into or out of Manhattan because of flooding.

Recap: Storm floods New York City area, pouring into subways and swamping streets in rush-hour mess

Friday 29 September 2023 16:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A potent rush-hour rainstorm swamped the New York metropolitan area on Friday, shutting down swaths of the city's subway system, flooding streets and highways, and cutting off access to at least one terminal at LaGuardia Airport.

Up to 5 inches (13 centimetres) of rain fell in some areas overnight, and as much as 7 inches (18 centimetres) more was expected throughout the day, New York Gov Kathy Hochul said.

“This is a dangerous, life-threatening storm," Hochul said in an interview with TV station NY1. "Count on this for the next 20 hours.”

Photos and video posted on social media showed water pouring into subway stations and basements, and reaching the top of cars' wheels in parts of Brooklyn and elsewhere.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which runs subway and commuter rail lines, urged residents of the nation's most populous city to stay home if they could. Virtually every subway line was at least partly suspended, rerouted or running with delays, and two of the Metro-North Railroad's three lines were suspended.

Flooding also was reported in surrounding areas, including Hoboken, New Jersey.

Multiple major road closures due to flooding

Friday 29 September 2023 16:29 , Oliver O'Connell

• FDR Drive closed in both directions at Delancey Street in Manhattan

• All lanes on the Cross Island Parkway are closed in both directions at Bell Boulevard in Queens

• Major Deegan Expressway closed in both directions at 230th Street in The Bronx

Consider alternate routes.

Brooklyn Queens Expressway flooded

Friday 29 September 2023 16:20 , Oliver O'Connell

Delays to Amtrak service out of New York Penn Station

Friday 29 September 2023 16:10 , Oliver O'Connell

Brooklyn resident says water came up through sewer pipes

Friday 29 September 2023 16:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch: Floodwaters inundate bus in Brooklyn

Friday 29 September 2023 15:49 , Oliver O'Connell

'I didn’t realize nyc buses were amphibious. Hmm.’

Friday 29 September 2023 15:45 , Oliver O'Connell

FDR Drive at full standstill in Lower Manhattan

Friday 29 September 2023 15:38 , Oliver O'Connell

Watch: Water pours into New York Subway

Friday 29 September 2023 15:33 , Oliver O'Connell

NYPD and FDNY responding to numerous calls for help

Friday 29 September 2023 15:31 , Oliver O'Connell

Tom Winter of NBC News writes: “The NYPD & FDNY are responding to numerous flooded basements with people inside, minor roof and ceiling collapses, cars trapped in water with people inside and other emergencies all tied to the flooding in New York City, a senior official says.”

He adds: “So far, no reports of deaths.”

Governor declares State of Emergency.

Friday 29 September 2023 15:26 , Oliver O'Connell

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state of emergency due to the extreme rainfall.

“I am declaring a State of Emergency across New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley due to the extreme rainfall we’re seeing throughout the region,” she tweeted.

“Please take steps to stay safe and remember to never attempt to travel on flooded roads.”

Watch: Storm system moves across New York City

Friday 29 September 2023 15:20 , Oliver O'Connell

Flooding strands commuters as disruption hits subway and streets flood

Friday 29 September 2023 15:16 , Oliver O'Connell

New Yorkers seen clearing blocked drains

Friday 29 September 2023 15:14 , Oliver O'Connell

Residents warned to prepare to move if needed

Friday 29 September 2023 15:12 , Oliver O'Connell

New York Emergency Management tweeted: “Heavy rain in NYC causing flooding of streets & low-lying areas, including basements. Prepare to move to higher ground if needed as flooding may occur with little to no notice and can be life-threatening. If you must travel, exercise caution and avoid flooded roadways.”

Further, the agency reiterated: “Flash Flood Warning for MN,QN,BK: Until 12:30PM. Heavy rain of 2-5in. have fallen, 1-3in. additional expected, & rates up to 2.5in/hour will cause flooding of roadways. Significant flash flooding is likely. Avoid travel. Move to higher ground.”

Manhattan’s borough president warns New Yorkers to avoid travel

Friday 29 September 2023 15:01 , Oliver O'Connell

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine has warned New Yorkers to avoid travel if they can as service disruptions hit every line of the New York Subway.

Mr Levine tweeted: “NYC is in the midst of an extreme rain event. 2-5 inches has already fallen. Rates of up to 2.5 in/hr expected. Flood warning in effect til 12:30pm.”

He adds: “FDR at Delancey full closure both directions due to flooding. Numerous subway delays. Use extreme caution if you must travel.”

Water more than halfway up car wheels

Friday 29 September 2023 15:00 , Oliver O'Connell

The scene on Flushing Avenue in Brooklyn at 8.45am ET

Dramatic video shows southern Brooklyn streets inundated

Friday 29 September 2023 14:54 , Oliver O'Connell

Brooklyn hardest hit by flooding, so far

Friday 29 September 2023 14:51 , Oliver O'Connell

Per CBS News:

Emergency responders are on the scene of a partial roof collapse at a warehouse in Lexington Avenue between Classon and Franklin Avenues in Brooklyn. It happened around 8:30 a.m.

Fortunately all workers at the warehouse were accounted for, according to the FDNY.

In Windsor Terrace, the FDNY said firefighters rescued a person in danger of drowning in a basement of an apartment building at Sherman Street near Greenwood Avenue.

Major disruption to subway service

Friday 29 September 2023 14:48 , Oliver O'Connell

There are major disruptions to subway service because of the rain, with the borough of Brooklyn hardest hit.

Watch: Carroll Street in Brooklyn under inches of water

Friday 29 September 2023 14:46 , Oliver O'Connell

Flash flooding strikes New York during morning rush hour

Friday 29 September 2023 14:43 , Oliver O'Connell

Good morning.

Torrential rainfall has heightened the threat of flash flooding in New York City and other parts of the northeast on Friday.

A severe storm has lodged over the city, and parts of upstate New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, leading to widespread flood watches and warnings.

The New York area could see more than three inches of rain in 24 hours with some parts of the city already recording one to two inches since midnight.