Flash flood warnings strike north-east US amid wildfire smoke from Canada

Dangerous weather is battering the northeastern United States, presenting a dual threat of severe thunderstorms and lingering smoke from Canadian wildfires. Flash flood warnings have been issued across parts of New Jersey and New York City as torrential rain inundates the region, overwhelming infrastructure and causing significant disruptions.

In New York City, videos circulating on social media depict water pouring into areas like Penn Station, highlighting the vulnerability of the city's infrastructure to extreme rainfall. Some locations have already recorded over 2.5 inches of rain, with flooding reported in numerous neighborhoods, including Jamaica, Crown Heights, and various parts of Brooklyn. Forecasters warn of the potential for damaging wind gusts, isolated tornadoes, and hail, with much of the tri-state area under a level 3 out of 5 risk for severe storms.

Simultaneously, the smoke from Canadian wildfires has returned, pushing air quality back to unhealthy levels in New York City and surrounding communities. While shifting winds are expected to gradually improve air quality, these same atmospheric changes are fueling the severe thunderstorms. The combination of poor air quality and the threat of extreme weather creates a challenging environment for residents.

Further south, Texas is still contending with the severe consequences of days of destructive storms and record-breaking rainfall. Although the prolonged downpours have subsided in the Hill Country, forecasters are closely monitoring major rivers, including the Devils River and the Rio Grande, which are predicted to reach major flood stages. Emergency crews remain active, conducting rescues as rising waters threaten communities, particularly those near the Mexico border that had previously escaped the worst of the flooding.