New York City experienced one of its wettest days in decades, with record-breaking rainfall causing widespread flooding and disruptions across the city. John F. Kennedy International Airport saw more than 8.65 inches of rain, surpassing the previous September record set during Hurricane Donna in 1960. Parts of Brooklyn were hit hard, with some areas receiving over 7.25 inches of rain, turning streets into knee-deep canals and leaving drivers stranded on highways. The heavy rainfall also led to the shutdown of the subway system, flooded streets and highways, and the closure of one terminal at LaGuardia Airport.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay put or seek higher ground to avoid any potential life-threatening situations. Fortunately, due to early warnings and prompt action, no lives were lost. However, the storm stirred frightening memories of Hurricane Ida, which caused deadly floods and claimed the lives of several people in basement apartments just two years ago.
The frequency and intensity of these storms were attributed to climate change by Governor Hochul. As the planet warms, storms are forming in a hotter atmosphere that can hold more moisture, leading to more frequent and extreme rainfall events. Hochul emphasized the need to address climate change as a priority to prevent future disasters.
Despite the severity of the storm, New Yorkers began to resume their usual routines as the rain subsided. Central Park and city sidewalks were still damp, but people were seen strolling through them. Highways and airports reopened, although some service interruptions remained in the subway system. Metro-North commuter rail service gradually resumed, and the Long Island Rail Road faced delays. Buses were also disrupted, and traffic on the FDR Drive came to a standstill.
The remnants of Tropical Storm Ophelia combined with a mid-latitude system, resulting in the prolonged and intense rainfall over New York City. The storm parked itself over the city for 12 hours, leading to the accumulation of significant rainfall. Despite ocean temperatures being below normal and air temperatures not being too hot, the storm still broke records, with rain falling at rates of up to 2 inches per hour in Central Park.
As the cleanup and recovery efforts continue, residents and officials are reminded of the importance of preparedness and taking climate change seriously to mitigate the impacts of future storms.
themes: Subway New York City New York (state)
