With rain coming down so fast, storm drains couldn't handle the deluge of water. On Interstate 93 in Quincy, all were lanes closed at one point because of extreme flooding during rush hour. At least five cars were stuck on the highway until the water receded.

A "considerable" flash flood warning has been issued in Boston as heavy, life-threatening rain pounds the city and areas to the south. Two to 4 inches of rain has fallen so far. Rainfall rates are reaching up to 2 inches per hour.

A flash flood warning is in effect until 9 a.m. for Boston and several communities south of the city, including Brockton, Quincy, and Randolph, officials said Thursday morning. The National Weather Service also issued a flood watch that will remain in effect until 4 p.m. for Rhode Island and eastern portions of Massachusetts and Connecticut.