Mayor Adams issues state of emergency due to NYC flash flood warning and road closures.
A flash flood warning has been issued for Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Staten Island, effective until 6:15 p.m. Authorities have cautioned residents against traveling or walking through areas where roads have become submerged due to heavy rainfall. The warning comes as intense thunderstorms swept through New York City following a hazardous heatwave, significantly impacting local commuting patterns and public safety.
In response to the escalating weather crisis, Mayor Eric Adams has declared a state of emergency, aimed at facilitating rapid responses from the New York Police Department (NYPD), the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), and other emergency services. This measure is intended to ensure that resources are readily available to address any incidents that may arise as a result of the severe weather conditions.
The flooding has prompted the closure of numerous key transportation routes throughout the city. City officials have urged commuters to seek alternative travel options as several major roads have been affected. Beginning around 4 p.m., all northbound lanes on the FDR Drive at East Houston Street were shut down due to water accumulation. The closures also extended to the Long Island Expressway, impacting eastbound traffic at Springfield Boulevard and westbound traffic at Bell Boulevard.
Additionally, the Clearview Expressway has been blocked in both directions at Northern Boulevard, while southbound traffic on the Cross Island Parkway is denied access approaching the Throgs Neck Bridge in Queens. Commuters relying on train services have also faced challenges, as service on the Long Island Railroad between Penn Station and Port Washington has been suspended in both directions due to the weather.
The subway system is not immune to disruption. Passengers on the A, D, E, B, F, and C lines are experiencing significant delays, exacerbated by earlier signal issues related to the inclement weather. Mayor Adams has issued a stark warning to the public, advising individuals to avoid entering the subway to protect their safety during this critical period.
As the storm continues, residents are reminded to stay informed about road conditions and public transportation updates. City officials are working diligently to monitor the situation and ensure community safety during this extreme weather event.
