New Jersey has declared a State of Emergency ahead of severe thunderstorms expected to unleash life-threatening flash flooding across the state. 

The state of emergency takes effect at 2pm for all 21 counties, home to more than nine million residents.

Meteorologists warned that up to seven inches of rain could fall through the evening, prompting flash flood watches statewide until Friday morning. 

Acting Governor Tahesha Way said: ‘Beginning this afternoon, we are expecting severe thunderstorms to bring heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts with the potential for flash flooding across the state.

‘I urge all New Jerseyans to remain alert, follow all safety protocols, and monitor the proper channels for the duration of these storms. 

‘Residents should remain off the roads and indoors unless absolutely necessary.’ 

This is a developing story… More updates to come 

Officials declared a State of Emergency in New Jersey Thursday, telling residents to remain off the roads and indoors. Pictured is flooding in Plainfield, New Jersey on July 14