NEW YORK (WABC) -- Strong storms caused flash flooding across the Tri-State area and even sparked a tornado warning in New Jersey on Thursday.
In New York City, flash flooding briefly closed sections of major roadways across the city just as the evening rush hour approached, and LIRR suspended service on one of its busiest lines as flooding covered tracks.
Some drivers on the Clearview Expressway in Queens ended up standing on the roofs of their stranded vehicles and a tractor trailer nearly fully submerged. The waters eventually receded and traffic slowly resumed, but officials still pleaded with people to say home. Rain was expected to fall through the night.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for parts of New York and New Jersey until 8 p.m.
A Tornado Warning was issued for parts of New Jersey but was allowed to expire, but Severe Thunderstorm Warnings are in place.
Click here for the latest alerts, watches and warnings from the National Weather Service.
Mayor Eric Adams has issued a localized State of Emergency for New York City.
New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol joined Eyewitness News to discuss flash flooding and severe storms.
Gladstone Branch rail service is suspended in both directions between Bernardsville and Gladstone due to weather related overhead power issues.
Customers should visit http://njtransit.com/abc for available alternate service information.
Due to a flooding condition, all northbound lanes on the FDR Drive at E Houston Street are closed.
There was a full closure on the Clearview Expressway at Northern Boulevard due to flooding.
Several cars could be seen stranded or abandoned in the flood waters.
