NEW YORK — Heavy rain swept across parts of the U.S. Northeast on Monday night, inundating parts of New York and New Jersey with flash flooding that stranded vehicles in roadways, closed subway lines and led to the declaration of a state of emergency.
Flash flood watches and warnings were in place in parts of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas as downpours moved through the region.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency due to flash flooding and heavy rainfall, advising people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. A video posted to social media by CBS showed flood waters bring a major roadway in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, to a standstill, stranding buses.
Our crews were on the scene in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, where they witnessed a dramatic water rescue unfold.
A flash flood warning is still in effect as downpours soak parts of Tri-State Area. https://t.co/GPdoGdfJTU pic.twitter.com/qM83uP8t9H
— CBS New York (@CBSNewYork) July 15, 2025
Some buses and trains in New Jersey were also delayed because of flooding.
In New York City, some subway service was suspended while other lines were running with severe delays due to flooding, according to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. New York’s emergency services agency wrote on the social platform X that parts of the city and mid-Hudson were getting hit with flash floods.
New Yorkers are being drenched tonight as the Northeast is experiencing heavy rainfall. Parts of New York City are under a flash flood warning this evening. #newyorkcity #rain #flood #SevereWx #FoxWeather pic.twitter.com/EdLusDBTaQ
— FOX Weather (@foxweather) July 14, 2025
Video posted on social media appears to show water flooding down into a Manhattan subway station, submerging the platform, while passengers inside a train watch. Another photo appears to show passengers standing on a train’s seats to avoid the water beginning to soak the floor.
Parts of major thoroughfares in New York, such as the northbound lanes of the Saw Mill River Parkway and the Cross Bronx Expressway, were temporarily closed due to flooding and at least one downed tree.
Officials in New York’s Westchester County were working to rescue people whose vehicles were submerged in water, according to Carolyn Fortino, a spokesperson for the county executive.
“At this time, residents are still strongly advised to avoid all travel unless fleeing an area that is subject to flooding, or under an evacuation order,” she said in an email.
A flood warning was also issued for Staten Island, which had seen about 4 to 6 inches of rain, according to NYC’s emergency notification system.
In Metuchen, New Jersey, Mayor Jonathan M. Busch, wrote on Facebook that the borough was significantly flooded, but by Monday evening water levels had already receded.
“It looks like the worst of the storm is behind us and thankfully, everyone is safe,” he said.
