Fri Aug 01 21:00:00 UTC 2025: **Northeast Reels After Torrential Rain Causes Flooding, Strands Commuters**

**NEW YORK, NY** – The Northeast region is grappling with the aftermath of torrential rain that lashed the area on Thursday, leaving roadways inundated, commuters stranded, and states scrambling to respond. New York City and New Jersey were particularly hard-hit, prompting states of emergency declarations and widespread disruptions.

In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul reported Queens as the epicenter of the storm, receiving over 5 inches of rainfall. A Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train became trapped in floodwaters near the Bayside station, stranding over 100 passengers during rush hour. Rescuers took two hours to reach the commuters. Full service was restored on the Port Washington Branch Friday, but only after several trains were canceled for lack of equipment and train cars out of position following the storm. Nearby, a retaining wall collapse behind a home sent debris onto the property, a disaster the homeowners said they feared due to inadequate drainage along the LIRR line.

Major New York City roadways, including the Long Island Expressway, Cross Island Parkway, FDR Drive, and Clearview Expressway, were temporarily closed due to flooding. On Staten Island, streets were submerged, impacting businesses. Flash flooding prompted multiple rescues, and two homes were struck by lightning, thankfully without injuries.

In New Jersey, Acting Governor Tahesha Way reported widespread flooding across major highways. The state, still recovering from recent deadly storms, faces further challenges as saturated ground exacerbates the impact of the flooding.

Both states had pre-positioned emergency resources to facilitate rapid response. Governor Hochul activated New York’s operations center and declared a state of emergency in 14 counties. Cleanup efforts are expected to continue into Friday.

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