Ida Hits NYC, Causes Widespread Flash Flooding and at Least 37 Deaths

At least 37 people died, including a New York City toddler, and tens of thousands were overwhelmed by floods as the remnants of Hurricane Ida devastated the tri-state area overnight with historic rainfall, at least one tornado and savage winds.
The grim tolls have only increased over the course of the day Thursday and are expected to climb further as emergency crews navigate flooded homes and cars.
Thirteen of the confirmed fatalities were in Brooklyn and Queens and included a 2-year-old boy, 43-, 86- and 48-year-old women and 50-, 66- and 22-year-old men. Another three deaths were confirmed Thursday afternoon in Flushing, the same neighborhood where the toddler and two others were found dead, officials said.
Two women and a man were discovered dead in the basement of a two-family house, officials said. Their deaths are believed to be storm-related -- and the NYPD says so far all the home deaths appear to have involved basement apartments -- but will be further investigated. Details on the 12th and 13th New York City victims weren't immediately clear.
"Our hearts ache for the lives lost in last night's storm. Please keep them and their loved ones in your thoughts today," the mayor said Thursday. "They were our fellow New Yorkers and to their families, your city will be there for you in the days ahead."