A powerful summer storm unleashed torrential rains across the Northeast and New England on July 29, 2026, triggering life-threatening flash floods, road closures, and multiple water rescues.
More than 11 million people remain under flood watches from eastern New York through western New England. Rainfall totals in some areas reached up to 7 inches.
The most severe threat is focused on Massachusetts, Vermont, and Connecticut, where a Level 3 of 4 flash flood risk persists.
New York's Hudson Valley Hardest Hit
In New York's Hudson Valley, rainfall between 2 to 6 inches was recorded. Guilderland experienced significant flooding with roads impassable and vehicles stranded in waist-deep water.
Authorities reported a man helping a child out of a flooded vehicle, highlighting the dangers faced by residents.
The National Weather Service in Albany issued multiple flash flood warnings for counties including Columbia, Greene, and Rensselaer.
Some areas like Schodack received over 7 inches of rain by early morning.
Flood-prone waterways such as Schoharie Creek reached moderate flood stage, while Esopus Creek experienced minor flooding, endangering nearby communities.
Authorities closed several roads in Albany, including Central Avenue and Washington Avenue near Harriman Campus, due to rising waters.
Police urged drivers to avoid flooded areas.
The National Weather Service sent an urgent alert advising residents to avoid travel unless evacuating flood zones or responding to evacuation orders.
Rescues in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, emergency responders conducted numerous rescues. At least 20 people were saved in Paterson, New Jersey, including a person stranded in a wheelchair.
Rescue teams also saved individuals and pets from homes flooded in central Pennsylvania.
Floodwaters forced closures on major routes including US 1/9 near the Pulaski Skyway. Stranded vehicles were reported on Staten Island.
The New York City area escaped the worst flooding overnight, with flood watches expiring early Wednesday morning.
The storm disrupted transportation, causing hundreds of flight cancellations and delays at major airports such as LaGuardia, JFK, Newark, and Boston Logan.
Heavy rain is expected to continue through Wednesday afternoon in eastern New York and western New England, with the greatest flood risk persisting throughout the day.
The storm system is forecast to weaken Wednesday evening, reducing rainfall intensity and the threat of widespread flooding.
However, isolated flooding risks will remain in coastal New England through Thursday.
