30th September 2023 – (New York) New York City has been placed under a state of emergency following the onslaught of powerful storms that have resulted in flash flooding throughout the area.
Subway systems, streets, and highways across the city have been engulfed by floodwaters, leading to significant disruptions in transportation. Additionally, one terminal at LaGuardia Airport was forced to close on Friday due to the severe weather conditions.
Overnight, some areas experienced rainfall of up to five inches, with forecasts predicting an additional seven inches to come, according to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.
Describing the situation as a dangerous and life-threatening storm, Governor Hochul stated, “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 issued a plea for residents to prioritize their safety and emphasized the importance of avoiding travel on flooded roads.
Mayor Eric Adams echoed the urgency of the situation, urging heightened alertness and extreme caution among the city’s residents. He addressed the challenges faced by the subway system, stating, “Some of our subways are flooded, and it is extremely difficult to move around the city.”
Visual evidence in the form of pictures and videos depicted individuals wading through knee-deep water as streets and subways succumbed to the heavy downpour.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) advised citizens to stay home if travel was not necessary, recognizing the limitations and hazards posed by the flooding.
LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal A was closed due to the flooding, prompting authorities to advise passengers to consult with their airlines before embarking on any travel plans.
To address the crisis, the New York Police Department implemented multiple road closures, while the National Guard was deployed to assist with the emergency response.
The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings and advisories that affect approximately 18 million people in the New York metropolitan area, as well as other major cities along the East Coast. These alerts serve as essential reminders for residents to exercise caution and take necessary precautions during this severe weather event.