Extreme flooding brought on by heavy rain in the Hudson Valley of New York resulted in at least one fatality, flooded streets, and Sunday night traffic closures.
Flash flood advisories were issued by the National Weather Service in regions of northeastern New Jersey and southeastern New York, describing them as “life-threatening.”
Significant Flooding and Road closures
During the evacuation of her Highland Falls home, a woman in her mid-30s and her dog perished in floodwaters, according to Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus.
The dog was discovered safe and was taken in by a neighbor; the woman was later discovered dead. Orange County, where roughly 8 inches of rain fell, received a state of emergency declaration from New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
- Hudson Valley floods cause fatalities, streets flooded, and traffic closures.
- Dog found safe; woman dead; Orange County declares state of emergency.
- Flooding causes Palisades Parkway closures, Metro-North train service suspensions.
Five swift-water rescue teams and a high-axle truck were sent by the state to assist with rescues in flooded areas. Also anticipated for Sunday night in New York City were showers and thunderstorms, which might result in flash floods.
The city’s emergency alert system warned that heavy rain could result in “life-threatening flooding to basements” and advised citizens to seek higher ground if necessary.
State Route 9W was flooded, and portions of the Palisades Interstate Parkway had to be closed due to excessive rain. It was anticipated that flooding and fallen trees would cause portions of the Metro-North train service to be suspended in both directions through Monday.
Weather-related delays also prevented Amtrak from running trains between Albany and New York City. By Sunday night, more than 1,000 scheduled flights into or out of Laguardia, John F. Kennedy, or Newark airports had been postponed.