Heavy rain flooded parts of Crown Heights today, with water pouring into 770 and surrounding streets along Eastern Parkway and Kingston Avenue. The storm overwhelmed blocked drains and construction zones that had already limited runoff. Several drainage openings near the intersection were covered by work materials, and piles of autumn leaves added to the obstruction, allowing water to pool quickly.

In recent months, major street work along Eastern Parkway and Kingston Avenue has left sections of the roadway partially closed and drainage grates covered. Construction barriers and equipment narrowed traffic and diverted runoff, making the area especially vulnerable when the storm hit. Residents said flooding had been a concern since the work began, with water often collecting even during lighter rain.

Inside 770, water seeped into the lower level, pooling around the lockers and spreading across the floor. Even as the cleanup began, bochurim and Anash continued learning and davening, undisturbed by the commotion.

Throughout the neighborhood, intersections along Albany, Brooklyn, and Kingston Avenues became impassable for parts of the afternoon. Buses were delayed, and cars stalled in standing water. In nearby Prospect Heights, stormwater overflowed onto Eastern Parkway near the museum area, while parts of Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard saw traffic backed up due to flooding at underpasses.

The MTA reported significant delays on several subway lines, including the 2, 3, and 4 trains, because of water entering stations and track areas in Brooklyn. Bus service across central Brooklyn also faced detours and slowdowns as multiple routes were forced to avoid flooded streets.

The National Weather Service reported rainfall of more than an inch per hour, with totals reaching up to two and a half inches across New York City and wind gusts near 50 miles per hour. “Flash Flood Warning continues for Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx until 5:30 PM,” the agency said. “Heavy rain will cause flooding of highways and streets. Move to higher ground.”

New York City Emergency Management warned residents to stay indoors and avoid flooded streets. “Heavy rain of one to two inches will cause flooding of low-lying and poor drainage areas,” the agency said. “Do not drive or walk where water covers the roadway. If you are in a basement, move to a higher floor.”

Council Member Chi Osse urged caution. “Stay safe, Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights,” he said. “Flooding has been reported at multiple intersections. Avoid travel if possible.”

Governor Kathy Hochul said the state was monitoring the storm’s effects and ready to assist the city’s response. “We are ready to assist our local partners as damaging winds and heavy rain move in,” she said.