New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency Thursday after torrential rainfall led to widespread flash flooding across New York City, submerging roads, stalling vehicles, and triggering emergency rescues.
One of the most heavily impacted areas was the Clearview Expressway in Queens, where cars and a semi-truck were left nearly underwater, prompting emergency response from FDNY and NYPD Emergency Services around 2:45 p.m. local time.
Key Developments
Floodwaters reached over seven feet in some areas, particularly in Queens and along the Cross Island Parkway, where vehicles were stranded and at least one person reportedly clung to a car roof awaiting rescue.
Emergency crews were able to help all trapped individuals reach safety, though it’s unclear if all were rescued or some escaped on their own.
Clearview Expressway was closed in both directions at Northern Boulevard due to the high water.
State of Emergency Declared Across Region
Gov. Hochul extended the emergency declaration to cover multiple counties, including:
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All five NYC boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn (Kings), Queens, Bronx, Staten Island (Richmond)
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