NEW YORK (VINnews) — Torrential rain from powerful storms Saturday triggered widespread flash flooding across parts of New York City, trapping motorists on major highways, flooding vehicles and causing significant travel disruptions.

One of the hardest-hit areas was where the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway meets Queens Boulevard in Woodside. Rising floodwaters stranded numerous vehicles, forcing some people to climb out through windows and onto higher ground while awaiting rescue. Emergency crews helped several people reach safety after they exited their vehicles.

Join our WhatsApp group

Subscribe to our Daily Roundup Email

Flooding also covered sections of the Cross Island Parkway in Whitestone, where drivers cautiously navigated standing water while traffic continued moving slowly. City buses also pushed through the flooded roadway.

On the Clearview Expressway in Bayside, several vehicles became stranded as water rose across the roadway. Rescue crews entered the floodwaters to assist motorists whose cars were partially submerged.

Drivers reported extensive traffic backups as emergency responders worked to clear flooded roadways. Some motorists also reported water damage to their vehicles.

The storms also affected neighboring New Jersey, where heavy rain caused power outages, flooded streets and contributed to flight delays and cancellations at Newark Liberty International Airport.