U.S hit by record-breaking rain, tornadoes
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio declared a state of emergency on Wednesday night (September 1) due to what he called an "historic weather event". All non-emergency vehicles were banned from New York City's streets until 5 a.m. (0900 GMT) on Thursday (September 2) due to dangerous road conditions, city authorities said on Twitter.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy also declared a state of emergency in response to Ida which has been downgraded to a tropical storm.
At least five flash-flood emergencies were issued Wednesday evening by the National Weather Service, stretching from just west of Philadelphia through northern New Jersey.
