New York City was brought to a standstill as torrential rains wreaked havoc, prompting a state of emergency declaration and raising concerns over safety. The city, known for its resilience, grappled with flash floods that inundated streets, halted public transport, and evoked memories of past weather-related disasters.
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The Deluge Hits
The National Weather Service reported a staggering two inches of rainfall in some areas by Friday morning, with another two inches expected in the hours ahead. New York City found itself grappling with a crisis as heavy rainfall led to flash floods that disrupted daily life.
State of Emergency
In response to the unfolding emergency, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency encompassing New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley. The severity of the situation was underscored when the governor urged residents to plan their “escape routes” and not wait until water levels “crossed their knees.” Safety became paramount as officials sounded the alarm.
Governor Hochul took to Twitter to implore all New Yorkers to stay informed about weather updates and schedules, emphasizing the importance of caution in the face of such adverse conditions.
Safety First
In a press conference, Governor Hochul stressed the need for safety, cautioning against any attempts to travel on flooded roads. Memories of tragic events, such as people drowning during Hurricane Ida in 2021, heightened concerns for those living in basement homes.
Public Transport Disruptions
The city’s public transport systems ground to a halt, and streets and highways turned into waterways. The New York City subway system experienced disruptions on every single line, leaving commuters stranded. Additionally, at least one terminal at LaGuardia Airport was forced to close.
The National Weather Service issued an urgent advisory, urging residents to “move to higher ground now” and act swiftly to ensure their safety. The Subway department also issued a statement warning residents of limited train connectivity, compounding the transportation woes.
Images of Devastation
Photos and videos circulating online depicted significant parts of the city submerged underwater. New Yorkers were seen wading through knee-high water, a surreal sight for a city accustomed to bustling streets.
Historic Rainfall
New York City’s emergency management commissioner, Zachary Iscol, noted that Friday marked the wettest day since Hurricane Ida struck two years ago. This statistic underscored the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the importance of heeding weather advisories and taking necessary precautions.
Iscol also warned of the potential for an additional two to four inches of rainfall throughout the day, urging individuals to be their first line of defense for themselves and their loved ones.
Emergency Alerts
To keep residents informed and safe, emergency alerts were sent to cellphones in the city at 9:30 AM local time by the National Weather Service (NWS). These alerts served as a crucial lifeline of information for those affected by the unfolding crisis.
As New York City grapples with the aftermath of these devastating flash floods, the emphasis remains on safety, preparedness, and community resilience in the face of unpredictable weather events.
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