Severe weather is impacting multiple regions around the globe, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flash flooding occurring in several areas.
In New South Wales (NSW), Australia, heavy rain and strong winds are forecast through the weekend, especially affecting the Hunter and Mid-North Coast with the potential for locally enhanced rainfall from thunderstorms. Coastal areas are also facing large waves and increased risk of coastal erosion. Authorities warn of tree and property damage, flash flooding, and advise staying updated with official weather warnings[1]. A complex system with two low-pressure areas is influencing the east coast, with hazardous surf conditions and large waves possibly reaching up to six meters, particularly from Port Macquarie northwards. The severe weather is expected to persist through the weekend, with improving conditions forecast for early next week[3].
Across the eastern United States, severe thunderstorms on Thursday brought heavy rainfall and flash flooding, especially in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. States of emergency were declared as the deluge caused hazardous driving conditions, cancelled and delayed hundreds of flights, and prompted flooded subway lines in New York City. AccuWeather reported some areas receiving more than an inch of rain in just 15 to 30 minutes, with flash flood warnings issued for rainfall rates of up to four inches per hour. Residents are cautioned not to attempt crossing flooded roads due to the significant risk[2]. The US East Coast generally experienced travel chaos, emergency rescues, and persistent flooding through late Thursday and into the weekend[5][7].
In the Southeast US, torrential downpours are expected to continue through early next week, with rainfall rates of 1-3 inches per hour forecast. Flash flood risk remains high as storm drains may be overwhelmed by the volume of water[6]. In Atlanta, rain is likely today through the weekend, with cooler temperatures expected as conditions remain damp and cloudy[4].
Locally, in Humboldt County, Iowa, flooding from the East Fork of the Des Moines River has led to closures and ongoing impacts from persistent rainfall[8].
References
- [1] Heavy rain, strong winds, large waves for NSW
- [2] NYC and NJ weather: States of emergency declared as …
- [3] Heavy rain and damaging wind for north-east NSW this …
- [4] Rain likely today through the weekend- August 1, 2025
- [5] Heavy rain triggers flash floods and travel chaos on …
- [6] Torrential downpours to pose flash flood risk in southeast U.S.
- [7] Heavy Rain Pummels the East Coast and Sparks Isolated …
- [8] Rain, rain, go away