New york: Heavy rain caused flash flooding across parts of Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey on Sunday, forcing road closures, water rescues, and disruptions to commuter rail services. The National Weather Service reported that the worst-hit areas appeared to be northern New Jersey, parts of Westchester County in New York, and coastal Connecticut along Interstate 95. Flash flood warnings remained in effect throughout much of the region during the morning as some areas received rain at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Metro-North and Amtrak reported delays and cancellations on rail lines serving New Haven, Norwalk, Bridgeport, and other major Connecticut communities due to flooding. Tweed New Haven Airport also closed its departures terminal because of flooding, with officials urging passengers scheduled to depart on Sunday not to come to the airport until further notice. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and other state officials warned drivers to avoid flooded roads and never attempt to drive through standing water.
The coastal area between Norwalk and Westport was among the hardest hit, receiving 6 to 7 inches of rain Sunday morning, with rainfall rates reaching 3 to 4 inches per hour. Westport firefighters carried out 13 rescues after people became trapped in vehicles by floodwaters. Photos and videos posted on social media showed water flooding businesses in the downtown area. The fire department urged residents to avoid flooded roads and allow emergency crews to work safely.
In Bridgeport, firefighters responded to numerous calls, using boats to rescue residents from flooded areas. Photos showed rescuers helping people from a house into a boat while standing in knee-deep water. The rain also caused several road closures and water rescues in White Plains and other communities in Westchester County, New York.
In New Jersey, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh reported that emergency crews rescued about 20 people from rapidly rising floodwaters, including a woman who fell from her wheelchair and was swept into the flooded street. Sayegh noted that there were no immediate reports of deaths or serious injuries from the flooding. However, videos shared online showed parked cars almost completely submerged on some roads. Despite the weather challenges, Paterson's annual Dominican parade proceeded Sunday afternoon after a slight delay, with organizers expressing determination to celebrate their culture and community.