Heavy rainfall in New York City and the surrounding region caused flash flooding and disrupted subway service on Friday morning. The National Weather Service issued flash-flood warnings for several areas, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, cautioning that highways, streets, and underpasses would be affected. Videos showed flooded roads in parts of Queens and Brooklyn, with Kennedy International Airport reporting over 3 inches of rain. New Yorkers were urged to avoid traveling as the heavy rainfall was deemed dangerous.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority warned of major disruptions to subway service, particularly in Brooklyn, due to flooding. Train services were suspended or delayed in various areas. In Manhattan’s Upper East Side, streets were underwater, and flooding extended to the sidewalks. Despite the rain, some people continued their morning commute, braving the elements. By 9:30 a.m., the Belt Parkway and parts of the F.D.R. Drive were closed due to flooding, causing significant traffic delays.
The rain was expected to persist throughout the day, with additional inches anticipated. Meteorologists stressed the need to monitor the situation, highlighting the uncertainties of the afternoon weather conditions. Overall, the heavy rainfall led to dangerous flash flooding, disrupting transportation networks and urging New Yorkers to exercise caution and stay off the roadways.