Record-setting rain overwhelmed New York City’s sewer system Friday, sending a surge of floodwater coursing through streets and into basements, schools, subways and vehicles throughout the nation’s most populous city.

The water rose fast and furious, catching some commuters off guard as they slogged through Friday morning’s rush hour. Many parts of New York City, including Brooklyn and lower Manhattan have seen as much as 6 inches of rain.

The downpour has caused flooding that brought New York City to a near-standstill and Governor has issued a state of emergency to release funds.