Flash flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida killed at least 44 people in the New York area overnight into Thursday, including several who perished in basements during the “historic” weather event officials blamed on climate change.
US President Joe Biden has said, historic investment is needed to deal with the climate crisis, as the north-east reeled from flash flooding and tornadoes that have killed at least 41 people. President Biden said, the US is facing climate-related destruction across the country and tackling it is a matter of life and death.
New York City and New Jersey saw unprecedented levels of rainfall. Some residents became trapped in flooded basements and cars.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said, at least 23 people died in his state – most of them stuck in their vehicles as the waters rose.
At least 14 people lost their lives in New York City, including a two-year-old boy. The officials said, eleven of them drowned while trapped in their flooded basements. The Governors of New York and New Jersey have declared a state of emergency following the flooding situation. Three people died near Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, while one person was killed in Connecticut.