Governor Kathy Hochul is set to declare a state of emergency for multiple New York counties as flash flood warnings intensify across the region. The move comes amid upgraded alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS), which now rates the risk of significant flash flooding as moderate — with up to a 70% chance of serious impacts.
Due to heavy rain and potential flooding, New York City and the surrounding counties are under a State of Emergency.
Be alert. Be safe. Be smart.
We’ll get through this. pic.twitter.com/RkNBWcGYTJ
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) July 31, 2025
Statewide Alert: Heavy Rainfall Threatens NYC, Long Island, and Hudson Valley
The declaration will affect numerous counties, including the Bronx, Delaware, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester.
Forecasters are warning of up to five inches of rain in the heaviest bands, particularly across downstate New York, with the storm system targeting the Mid-Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island regions starting Thursday afternoon into Friday.
Commute Chaos Likely as Rainfall Rates Surge
Rainfall is expected to exceed 2 inches per hour, especially during Thursday’s evening commute. Employers are being urged to release workers early to reduce congestion and ensure safety.
The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley, warning that the heaviest rainfall will occur within a concentrated 3- to 6-hour window Thursday evening.
“I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we expect excessive rainfall with the potential for flash flooding,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.
“State agencies are on standby for heavy downpours and localized flooding and will be monitoring the situation in real time to ensure the safety of all New Yorkers in the path of the storm.”
Localized Flooding Threatens Roads, Basements, and Subways
The NWS forecasts 1 to 3 inches of rain across much of the region, with isolated totals of 5 inches possible. High rainfall rates could lead to:
- Impassable roads, especially underpasses and low-lying areas
- Flooded basements and subway systems in New York City
- Overwhelmed sewer systems in high-density urban zones
Even areas outside the most intense zones, such as the Southern Tier, Capital Region, and Upper Mid-Hudson, could receive up to 2 inches of rain, prompting statewide preparedness.
Early State Employee Release Ordered for High-Risk Counties
To mitigate risk, the state ordered the early release of non-essential employees in the following counties at 1:00 p.m. Thursday:
- New York City
- Sullivan
- Rockland
- Orange
- Ulster
- Dutchess
- Westchester
- Nassau
- Suffolk
What’s Next?
The situation remains fluid as the storm develops. Authorities are monitoring real-time flood data and will update the public as needed. Commuters and residents in affected areas are advised to:
- Avoid driving through flood-prone roads
- Monitor weather alerts and emergency advisories
- Prepare for possible evacuations or shelter-in-place orders if conditions worsen
Stay tuned for updates from the New York State Emergency Management Office and local officials.
