WASHINGTON New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday declared a state of emergency for New York City and surrounding counties as torrential rain threatens widespread flash flooding. “I am urging all New Yorkers to stay vigilant, stay informed, and use caution as we expect excessive rainfall with the potential for flash flooding,” Hochul said in a statement. State stockpiles are ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed, the statement added. The following counties are