New Jersey Expands Flood Emergency, Closes Facilities

New Jersey has declared a state of emergency throughout all 21 counties starting at 2 p.m. Thursday due to a powerful storm system causing severe thunderstorms and flash flooding risks. Both Acting Governor Tahesha Way and Governor Phil Murphy urged residents to stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary. Rainfall totals are expected to reach 1–3 inches statewide, with some isolated areas possibly seeing up to 7 inches and rainfall rates over two inches per hour. The National Weather Service issued Flood Watches not only for New Jersey but also for Delaware, Pennsylvania, and the broader I-95 corridor from Washington, D.C. to New York. State offices and several public facilities, including parks and pools, closed early to ensure public safety. Officials stress the need for ongoing vigilance and compliance with safety protocols as the region faces heightened risks of flash floods, landslides, and hazardous travel conditions.