There has never been weather like this in New York City. The National Weather Service of New York City announced on Wednesday evening that it will be the first time a flash flood emergency warning has been issued. During the night, Central Park had the greatest amount of rain that ever fell in a single hour.
The so-called Flash Flood Emergency advises people to go to higher ground immediately and to avoid walking or driving through the flood.
Airport flooded, metro system running at full capacity
The weather causes absolute chaos in the Big Apple. Numerous flights have been canceled or postponed. Newark Airport is even partially under water. The city’s subway system also comes to a standstill. Twitter videos show stairs to the stations that have become waterfalls.
New York Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Twitter: “I’m calling a state of emergency in New York City tonight.” And further: “Tonight we are experiencing a historic weather event with record-breaking rain all over the city, brutal floods and dangerous conditions on our streets.”
Extreme weather after Hurricane Ida
During the night between 8:51 p.m. and 9:51 p.m., Central Park rained more than ever in one hour. It was the wettest hour on New York City records – dating back to 1870.
The extreme weather is remnants of Hurricane Ida, which hits the United States with flash floods, tornado observations and warnings, and historical amounts of rain. (euc)