States of emergency have been declared in New York and New Jersey as a potent storm system bears down on the Mid-Atlantic, threatening to unleash torrential rainfall, damaging winds, and dangerous flash flooding across the region on Thursday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued widespread Flood and Severe Thunderstorm Watches, urging millions of residents to remain vigilant and prepare for hazardous conditions, particularly during the evening commute.
The primary threat stems from slow-moving thunderstorms capable of producing extreme rainfall rates, with forecasters warning of 1 to 3 inches of rain falling in a short period, and isolated totals potentially reaching 5 to 7 inches. Some storms could dump over two inches of rain per hour, a rate that can quickly overwhelm drainage systems in urban areas. The NWS Weather Prediction Center has placed parts of southeastern Pennsylvania, central and southern New Jersey, and northern Delaware under a “Moderate Risk” for excessive rainfall, highlighting the potential for significant flash flooding.
In response to the severe forecast, New Jersey Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way declared a State of Emergency effective at 2 p.m. Thursday, a move that allows for the deployment of state resources. State offices in New Jersey were closed as of 1 p.m. to keep people off the roads. “Please monitor the proper channels for the duration of these storms. Remain off the roads and indoors unless necessary,” Way urged residents. New York officials also declared a state of emergency, citing the serious flood concerns, especially for New York City’s infrastructure. Officials noted that the city’s subway systems typically experience issues with rainfall rates around one inch per hour, far less than what is possible with this system.
Beyond the rain, the storms carry the risk of severe weather, including damaging wind gusts up to 65 mph and hail the size of quarters, according to reports from CBS Baltimore. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for numerous counties across New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia through Thursday evening.
Understanding the Alerts
With multiple alerts active, it is crucial for residents to understand the terminology used by the National Weather Service.
- A Flood Watch means that conditions are favorable for flooding to occur. It is a time to “Be Prepared” and monitor forecasts closely.
- A Flash Flood Warning means a flash flood—a sudden, violent inundation—is imminent or already happening. This requires immediate action. If you are in a flood-prone area, you should move to higher ground immediately.
Safety is Paramount: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
Emergency officials across the region are emphasizing the life-saving message: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” Flooding is one of the deadliest weather-related hazards, and over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous floodwater. It is impossible to know the depth of the water or the condition of the road beneath it.
According to the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, it takes just six inches of moving water to knock an adult off their feet and only one foot of moving water to sweep a vehicle away. Floodwaters can also hide dangerous debris, contain harmful bacteria and chemicals, and may be electrically charged by downed power lines. Residents are advised to have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts, secure outdoor property, and avoid all contact with floodwaters.
The storm system is expected to move out of the region by Friday, giving way to cooler, less humid weather for the weekend. Until then, authorities urge the public to heed all warnings and prioritize safety.
