At least eight dead in New York City and New Jersey in the wake of major floods and 'historic' rainfall from Hurricane Ida

Eight people have died in New York City and New Jersey, according to media reports, after insane floods and “historic” rainfall from Hurricane Ida, which prompted officials to declare a state of emergency.

Storm Ida has claimed at least eight lives in New York and New Jersey, according to reports from local media NBC. One death was confirmed in Passaic, New Jersey, while seven deaths were counted in New York City, including a two-year-old boy.

The two east coast states were hit by “historic” Insane weather conditions as tornadoes sprouted through New Jersey on Wednesday caused extensive damage and destroyed homes. Meanwhile, footage in large places showed major flooding in subway stations and even in some basement items and backyards.

Bill de Blasio, Mayor of New York, imposed state of emergency in response to “Historic weather event … with record-breaking rain throughout the city, brutal flooding and dangerous conditions on our roads."

New York National Weather Service as well issued its first flood warning for big cities. All non-emergency vehicles were ordered to be off the streets and highways until 5 a.m. Thursday (9:00 GMT).

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy declared a similar state of emergency across its 21 counties with a simple message posted on Twitter urging citizens to “Stay off the roads, stay home and be safe” Wednesday evening.

The storm comes when Ida - formerly listed as a hurricane in landing category 4 - tore through the east coast. Ida was downgraded to a tropical storm on Monday, but has left devastation to several cities in the wake. Parts of Louisiana are expected to be without power for up to a month after being hit by 150 mph winds and heavy rain.

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