A powerful cold front has unleashed severe thunderstorms along the US Atlantic coast, with New York and New Jersey preparing for potentially record-breaking flash flooding. Forecasters warn that rainfall could reach up to 3 inches (7.6cm) per hour in many areas, with isolated spots seeing as much as 5 inches (12.7cm) in a matter of hours.
States of emergency have been declared in both states, with authorities urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel amid warnings of life-threatening conditions during the evening commute.
