Storms Cause Fatalities, House Explosion in NJ

Severe storms and flash flooding hit New York and New Jersey, causing widespread disruption and significant damage. In Plainfield, NJ, two women died after their car was swept into Cedar Brook, marking the area's third and fourth storm-related deaths this month. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency and linked the frequent extreme weather events to climate change. Emergency crews conducted dozens of water rescues as some areas received up to 6.5 inches of rain in a short period. In North Plainfield, a vacant house exploded due to a suspected gas leak related to the flooding, while mass transit and major roadways in both states faced severe delays or closures. New York City saw subway station flooding and travel disruptions, with near-record rainfall in Central Park recorded in just one hour.