Flash floods hit NYC, New Jersey declares state of emergency amid storms

Torrential rains battered parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic on Monday night, causing flash flooding across New York City and northern New Jersey and prompting emergency alerts and evacuations.

As chaos unfolded across cities, Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency. “I am declaring a State of Emergency given flash flooding and high levels of rainfall in parts of the state,” Murphy said on X (formerly Twitter). “Please stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay safe, New Jersey.”

I am declaring a State of Emergency given flash flooding and high levels of rainfall in parts of the state.

Please stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay safe, New Jersey.— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) July 14, 2025

The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings across all five boroughs of New York City, as storms brought over an inch of rain to parts of Staten Island and Manhattan by early evening, with more expected overnight.

New York City officials urged residents of basement flats to prepare for rapid evacuation. If you live in a basement flat, stay alert. Flash flooding can happen with little warning, including overnight,” New York City Emergency Management posted on X. “Keep a phone, torch, and Go Bag nearby. Be ready to move to higher ground.”

The Chelsea neighbourhood in Manhattan recorded 1.47 inches of rain by 7:30 p.m., while Staten Island saw 1.67 inches, according to city emergency updates. More rain was forecast for later in the night, according to a report by NBC. Authorities continue to monitor flood-prone areas and are urging residents to remain cautious as conditions may worsen.

“Plainfield, NJ,” one user posted on social media, as updates and videos poured in online showing swamped intersections and overwhelmed emergency responders.

Plainfield, NJ #thunderstorm #flashflood @DaveCurren @JoeMartWx @News12NJ pic.twitter.com/Gj1NRx0pOk— Andrew Winters (@weather_winters) July 14, 2025

As reported by Mycentraljersey, Metuchen Mayor Jonathan Busch said police were rescuing motorists stranded in floodwaters and transporting them to the borough’s high school for shelter. “Much of the borough is experiencing significant flooding,” he said, urging residents to stay off the roads.

– Ends