Authorities are urging residents to prepare for severe weather as a powerful storm system that could cause intense flash floods moves through a swathe of the US east coast stretching from New York City to Washington DC.

Forecasters are predicting intense rainfall, with rates possibly reaching up to 3 inches an hour. While most areas are expected to receive 1 to 3 inches of rain, certain isolated locations could see as much as 5 to 8 inches.

In anticipation of the severe weather, the acting New Jersey governor, Tahesha Way, has declared a state of emergency for the state, effective at 2pm on Thursday. The declaration comes amid concerns over flooding,