A state of emergency has been declared in New York and New Jersey as flash flooding hits both states.

The National Weather Service posted flash flood warnings along parts of the Northeast urban corridor stretching from the Washington-Baltimore region north through Philadelphia, Wilmington, Delaware, and into the New York City metropolitan area.

Severe thunderstorm watches were also in effect across much of the Interstate-95 corridor.

Up to five inches (12.7cm) of rain was forecast in the heaviest bands of showers expected across New York City, Long Island and the Hudson River Valley, with rainfall rates that could exceed two inches per hour, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement.

“I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we expect excessive rainfall with the potential for flash flooding,” she added.