New Delhi, July 19 -- New York City was battered by torrential rain and thunderstorms on Saturday, triggering flash flood warnings and widespread disruption across the five boroughs.

Heavy downpours began late in the morning, prompting emergency alerts and causing severe flooding on roads and in parts of the city. Drivers were trapped on the Clearview Expressway in Queens after floodwater rose rapidly, with officials seen rescuing people from vehicles, some of which were submerged up to their windows.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said, "Severe thunderstorms are hitting across New York City, and much of the city is under a flood advisory. Don't risk your safety in these dangerous conditions."

The Long Island Expressway was also affected by floo...