Heavy rain and flash flooding prompted weather officials to issue multiple warnings in New York City and parts of northern New Jersey on Saturday, with authorities urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel as roads were flooded and traffic disrupted.
A flash flood warning has been issued for much of central Queens and northern Brooklyn until 3:30 p.m., while another warning remains in effect for parts of Brooklyn until 2 p.m., according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
A flood warning was also issued for the Bronx until 3:30 p.m., with forecasters expecting 0.5 to 1 inch of rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
New York City urges residents to avoid travel
As flooding affected several communities, New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) issued an emergency alert asking residents and visitors to stay off the roads unless necessary.
“Localized flooding is reported in parts of New York City. Do not enter flooded roadways or buildings. Stay away from flooded basements. Move to higher ground/floors if necessary. If immediate assistance is needed, call 911. Avoid unnecessary travel,” the agency said, instructing commuters to check for service updates through the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and 511NY.
Roads closed, traffic disrupted
Flooding forced the closure of both directions of Northern Boulevard on the Clearview Expressway in Queens, and city officials advised motorists to use alternative routes.
Traffic delays were also reported near the Long Island Expressway and Morris Avenue in Queens as heavy rainfall impacted travel across the city.
Meanwhile, LaGuardia Airport warned passengers that severe weather conditions are causing flight disruptions and advised passengers to check directly with their airline before traveling to the airport.
Which areas are affected?
Flash Flood Warning (New York)
Central Queens (most areas) – until 3:30 p.m.
North Brooklyn – until 3:30 p.m.
Parts of Brooklyn – A separate warning issued until 2 p.m.
Flood Warning (New York)
Bronx – until 3:30 p.m.
Flash Flood Warning (Northern New Jersey)
Bergen County
Essex County
hudson county
east passaic county
union county
Communities covered by flood warning
newark
jersey city
Patterson
Elizabeth
hoboken
hackensack
jamaica
Flushing
flatbush
bayonne
Wayne
plainfield
linden
orange
Bergenfield
Paramus
Ridgewood
coney island
The National Weather Service said 1 to 3 inches of rain fell in parts of New York and New Jersey, with rainfall rates reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour. More heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to move from the southwest, increasing the risk of flash flooding.