Severe Weather Hits New York and New Jersey

Severe storms have unleashed flooding across New York and New Jersey, with tornado warnings issued for areas including Queens and Nassau County.

Why it matters: The storms have raised concerns about safety and infrastructure as residents face potential tornadoes and flash flooding. Emergency services are on high alert as conditions evolve.

• Flooding was reported in various parts of New York and New Jersey on August 20, 2026.
• The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a tornado warning for Queens and Nassau counties until 7:15 p.m. EDT.
• A Flash Flood Warning was also issued for parts of New York and New Jersey until 7:45 p.m. EDT.

Driving the news: Heavy rain began falling across the region late Thursday afternoon, with Doppler radar indicating thunderstorms producing substantial rainfall. By 5:39 p.m. EDT, between 1 and 1.5 inches of rain had already accumulated, with rates of up to 1.5 inches per hour.

• Residents were warned that another 1 to 2 inches of rain could fall, exacerbating flooding conditions.
• Reports of flooding included water pouring onto subway platforms at Penn Station in New York City.
• Major roadways, including the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway and the Long Island Expressway, were closed due to flooding.

State of play: The NWS has identified specific areas under the flash flood warning, including Southern Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Eastern Passaic, and Northeastern Union Counties in New Jersey, along with Bronx, Kings (Brooklyn), New York (Manhattan), Queens, and Richmond (Staten Island) counties in New York.

• The New York City Emergency Management advised residents to seek shelter indoors and stay away from windows during the tornado warning.
• Emergency preparedness guidelines were issued, urging residents to charge cell phones, gather supplies, and keep refrigerators set to colder temperatures.
• Power outages are likely, and residents were advised to stay clear of downed power lines.

The big picture: These severe weather events come as the region grapples with changing climate patterns that have intensified storm activity. The public is reminded of the importance of staying informed and prepared for emergencies.

• Severe weather has become increasingly common in recent years, prompting local authorities to bolster emergency response plans.
• Community engagement and awareness are key as residents navigate these challenges.
• Officials continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.

What they're saying: The New York City Emergency Management stated, "During a tornado warning, be prepared to potentially lose power. Charge cell phone batteries, gather supplies, and turn refrigerators and freezers to a colder setting." This guidance highlights the urgency of preparedness during severe weather.

• Residents are encouraged to dial 9-1-1 if they require immediate assistance due to power outages or other emergencies.
• Local officials are working closely with the NWS to keep the public informed about weather developments.
• "Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel," emergency services reiterated in their communications.

By the numbers: The storms have already produced substantial rainfall, with forecasts indicating that total accumulations could reach 3 inches in some areas.

• Between 1 and 1.5 inches of rain fell by early evening, with an additional 1 to 2 inches expected.
• Flash Flood Warnings cover multiple counties across New York and New Jersey, affecting millions of residents.
• The tornado warning remains in effect until 7:15 p.m. EDT for Queens and Nassau counties.

What's next: Residents should remain vigilant as the severe weather system continues to move through the area. Emergency management will provide updates as conditions change.