Northeast braces for powerful storms with heavy rain, flash floods

UPDATED: Aug 1, 2025 01:00 IST

Powerful storms are expected to sweep through the Northeast on Thursday, bringing the risk of dangerous flash flooding from northern Virginia to Connecticut, according to the Weather Service (NWS).

New Jersey Lt. Governor Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency, warning of the potential for flash floods due to fast-moving storms and already saturated ground. "Please take all necessary precautions," she wrote on X.

Forecasters predict the most intense weather will arrive later Thursday afternoon into the night, with heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms likely along the Washington, DC–Philadelphia–New York City corridor. Southern areas in the zone could see rainfall rates as high as 2 inches (5 cm) per hour.

Flash flood warnings were issued Thursday afternoon for parts of Pennsylvania's Berks, Lancaster, and York counties, as well as Baltimore and Hartford counties in Maryland. The NWS stated that flooding could affect creeks, streams, urban areas, highways, and low-lying zones.

Flood and severe thunderstorm watches remain in effect across the region through late Thursday and into Friday. Rainfall totals may reach 4 to 6 inches (10–15 cm) in some locations. A severe thunderstorm warning was also issued for eastern Pennsylvania, where winds could hit 60 mph (97 kph) and hail the size of pennies was possible.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said emergency teams are preparing for response and recovery as needed.

In New York City, officials warned that heavy rains could flood streets, subways, and basements. Residents living in basement units were advised to relocate to higher floors, and all New Yorkers were urged to avoid travel from Thursday afternoon to Friday afternoon.

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With inputs from Associated Press