Heavy rain caused flash flooding across parts of Connecticut, New York and New Jersey on Sunday, forcing road closures, water rescues and disruptions to commuter rail services.

The National Weather Service said the worst-hit areas appeared to be northern New Jersey, parts of Westchester County in New York and coastal Connecticut along Interstate 95. Flash flood warnings remained in effect across much of the region during the morning as some areas received rain at a rate of 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 centimeters) per hour.

Metro-North and Amtrak reported delays and cancellations on rail lines serving New Haven, Norwalk, Bridgeport and other major Connecticut communities because of flooding.

Tweed New Haven Airport also closed its departures terminal because of flooding. Airport officials urged passengers scheduled to depart Sunday not to come to the airport until further notice.

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont and other state officials warned drivers to stay away from flooded roads and never attempt to drive through standing water.

Water rescues reported in coastal Connecticut
The coastal area between Norwalk and Westport was among the hardest hit, receiving 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 centimeters) of rain Sunday morning. Rainfall rates reached 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 centimeters) per hour.

Westport firefighters carried out 13 rescues after people became trapped in vehicles by floodwaters. Photos and videos posted on social media showed water flooding businesses in the downtown area.

“Even as the rain subsides, standing water and other hazards may remain,” the fire department said, urging residents to avoid flooded roads, stay away from barricades and allow emergency crews to work safely.

In Bridgeport, firefighters said they responded to “call after call,” using boats to rescue residents from flooded areas. Photos showed rescuers helping people from a house into a boat while standing in knee-deep water.

The rain also caused several road closures and water rescues in White Plains and other communities in Westchester County, New York.

New Jersey crews rescue about 20 people
In New Jersey, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh said emergency crews rescued about 20 people from rapidly rising floodwaters. Among them was a woman who fell from her wheelchair and was swept into the flooded street.

Sayegh said there were no immediate reports of deaths or serious injuries from the flooding. However, videos shared online showed parked cars almost completely submerged on some roads.

As the rain eased and skies cleared, Paterson's annual Dominican parade went ahead Sunday afternoon after a slight delay.

“The rain won't stop us from celebrating our culture, pride, and community!” organizers said on Facebook.