32 million in US Northeast, including NYC, under tornado watch as severe storm threat looms

A tornado watch has been issued for over 32 million people across the U.S. Northeast, encompassing major metropolitan areas including New York City and Philadelphia, as severe thunderstorms threaten the region on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. The watch is expected to remain in effect until 9 p.m. ET, covering parts of Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Connecticut. Atmospheric conditions are conducive to rapidly developing severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, widespread damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, and large hail.

The dangerous weather system brings a significant risk of flash flooding, with torrential downpours potentially dumping 1-3 inches of rain per hour in some areas. Several reports of confirmed tornadoes have already emerged, including in northern New Jersey, causing trees and debris to block roadways. Localized flooding has submerged cars and closed major intersections, particularly in northern New Jersey, and flash flood warnings are active for New York City and surrounding areas.

In response to the severe weather, air travel has been substantially disrupted, with numerous flight cancellations and delays at major airports like LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark. Authorities are urging residents to have multiple severe weather alerting systems active and be prepared to seek immediate shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building if a tornado warning is issued.