Torrential rainfall in New York's Hudson Valley has resulted in at least one fatality and widespread devastation, prompting a state of emergency declaration. A woman in her thirties tragically lost her life while attempting to escape her flood-engulfed home, as confirmed by rescue teams. Two other individuals successfully evacuated the same residence.

Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus described the sheer force of the flash flood, which dislodged boulders, causing them to slam into the woman's house and compromise its structural integrity. He recounted how the victim was "completely surrounded by water" and "overwhelmed by tidal-wave type waves" as she tried to navigate the floodwaters with her dog.

The photograph above depicts a flooded section of Palisades Parkway near the Bear Mountain Bridge in Orange County, New York, where vehicles were stranded on Sunday.

With some areas receiving up to eight inches of rain, the storm's impact has already caused tens of millions of dollars in damage. Furthermore, experts warn that additional showers and thunderstorms could bring several more inches of rain, potentially making this the most severe flash flooding event in parts of the Northeast since Hurricane Irene in 2011.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the crisis in a WCBS radio interview, revealing that several individuals are missing and at least one home has been swept away. While some regions have been harder hit than others, officials are urging residents across the state, particularly those in the eastern areas, to brace for heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding. Hochul emphasized the importance of staying off the roads and assured residents, "We'll get through this… it's going to be a rough night."

Governor Hochul declared a state of emergency for Orange County on Sunday, which was later expanded to include Ontario County in western New York.

She affirmed that state agencies are actively involved in search and rescue operations and are maintaining close communication with local officials. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer echoed these sentiments, stating that he is closely monitoring the situation and expressing gratitude for the tireless efforts of first responders.

The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for parts of southeastern New York and northeastern New Jersey, characterizing the storm as "life-threatening." They also anticipate a "considerable flood threat" for parts of New England, with a high risk of excessive rainfall, particularly in Vermont and northeastern New York, by Monday.

New York City residents are also urged to prepare for potential flash flooding, with warnings issued about the possibility of life-threatening basement flooding. Residents are advised to be ready to move to higher ground if necessary.