At least two people died Thursday after record rainfall flooded parts of New York City, submerging streets, vehicles, and subway stations. Both victims were found in flooded basements, police confirmed.
Details of the Incidents
A 39-year-old man was discovered unconscious in a Brooklyn basement and later pronounced dead at a hospital after being rescued by the FDNY Scuba Team. In northern Manhattan’s Washington Heights, a 43-year-old man was found in a flooded boiler room. Police are investigating both deaths.
Record Rainfall and Flash Floods
NYC Emergency Management reported 1.8 inches of rain in Central Park, potentially breaking a 1917 record. LaGuardia Airport recorded 1.97 inches, preliminarily exceeding a 1955 record. Flash flood warnings were issued for Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, with videos showing submerged cars, gushing water, and flooded subway stations.
Travel Disruptions Across the Northeast
The storm caused more than 1,000 U.S. flight cancellations, mostly in the Northeast. JFK and LaGuardia airports experienced ground delays due to strong winds reaching 50 mph.
Storm Not Linked to Hurricane Melissa
The heavy rain and wind were caused by an inland storm system moving through the Northeast, unrelated to Hurricane Melissa, which struck the Caribbean earlier this week. The system is expected to reach New England overnight, with drier but blustery conditions forecast for Halloween.
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