New York City and parts of New Jersey were overwhelmed on Thursday, July 31, 2025, as intense afternoon storms dumped up to five inches of rain across the region. The deluge brought chaos to roads, railways, and neighborhoods, prompting states of emergency in both NYC and NJ.
Meteorologists had warned of potential rainfall rates exceeding 2 inches per hour, but in some areas, rates reportedly tripled that, especially during the critical afternoon rush hour. NYC’s subway system, already vulnerable at 1 inch per hour, experienced severe disruptions, with delays and partial suspensions.
In Queens, the southbound lanes of the Cross Island Parkway at Exit 31 West were closed due to flooding and debris dislodged from nearby Metro North LIRR tracks. Meanwhile, the Port Washington Branch of the LIRR was suspended in both directions because of flooding near Flushing Main Street, forcing commuters to rely on alternate subway and bus routes.
⚠️ Traffic Alert: Cross Island Parkway SB @ Exit 31W remains fully closed due to flooding that caused large amount of debris to fall from the Metro North LIRR tracks. @NYC_DOT, @NYCEMergencymgt, @NYCWATER, @NYPDnews & @NYCSanitation are on scene working rapidly to reopen the… pic.twitter.com/ZccrL5ayGv
— Kaz Daughtry (@kazdaughtry) July 31, 2025
Plainfield, NJ—a town still reeling from deadly flooding just two weeks prior—once again found itself under threat. Flash flood warnings were issued across the tri-state area, including a late evening alert for Suffolk County.
Beyond transit, the storm left a trail of infrastructure issues. Con Edison reported that approximately 1,500 customers were without power Thursday night, though most were expected to be restored by 11 p.m. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum announced closure on Friday due to significant storm impacts, with plans to reopen on Saturday.
Despite the destruction, relief is in sight. Meteorologists expect the storm system to pass overnight, ushering in cooler temperatures and lower humidity for the weekend—offering a much-needed reprieve to residents and emergency crews alike.
Officials urge continued caution as cleanup efforts progress and water recedes. With climate events becoming more frequent and severe, New Yorkers are once again reminded of the city’s vulnerability to flash flooding and extreme weather.