Heavy Rain Triggers Flash Flooding and Travel Delays Across the East Coast

Severe rainstorms have caused flash flooding across the East Coast, leading to significant travel disruptions and emergency rescues of stranded motorists. Major roadways and train stations were affected during peak commuting hours.

Heavy rainstorms battered the East Coast on Thursday, causing flight delays and emergency rescues from Philadelphia to New York City. Flash floods temporarily closed major roads and train stations in New York as the evening rush hour began. Videos showed water cascading over a train at Grand Central Terminal, while commuter rail services to Long Island and New Jersey faced suspensions due to flooded tracks.

Amtrak halted trains between Philadelphia and Wilmington because of high water on the tracks. "Once a route is available, anticipate residual delays," officials posted on X. In Queens, traffic cameras captured motorists standing on car roofs and a nearly submerged tractor-trailer. Police rescued two people from flooded vehicles before traffic resumed.

Severe Weather Impacts Travel and Power

Airports in New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia experienced numerous flight delays and cancellations by Thursday evening. Tornado warnings in New Jersey passed without twisters, but over 20,000 customers lost power. States of emergency were declared in New Jersey and New York City, with government workers sent home early.

In Pennsylvania, the National Weather Service warned of up to 3 inches of rain per hour, leading to flooding in Reading, about 60 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Online images showed cars nearly submerged and water rushing down streets. Emergency vehicles blocked off impassable roads and underpasses.

Emergency Measures Across Affected Areas

Maryland saw emergency responders rescuing people from flooded vehicles northeast of Baltimore. Officials preemptively closed flood-prone roads, shut schools and libraries early, and opened emergency shelters as more storms were expected. Flood watches and warnings were issued statewide.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams urged residents to avoid roads and advised those in basement apartments to move to higher ground as rain was forecasted through Friday afternoon. The strongest storms were expected later Thursday with heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms along the Washington-Philadelphia-New York City corridor.

Weather Alerts Remain in Effect

Flood watches and severe thunderstorm watches continued until late Thursday and Friday, with 4 to 6 inches of rain possible in some areas. The weather service warned of potential flooding in small creeks, streams, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, and poorly drained locations. High wind gusts and penny-sized hail were also possible.

The severe weather caused significant disruptions across the region, impacting travel and daily life for many residents. Authorities remained vigilant as they monitored conditions closely to ensure public safety amid ongoing storms.

With inputs from PTI