Dangerous flash floods stranded motorists and left roadways under water. Some outdoor activities were canceled as communities scurried to keep pace with the rising waters.

A "considerable" flash flood warning has been issued in Boston as heavy, life-threatening rain pounds the city and areas to the south.

Thursday's rain was a highly localized event. The highest impact was only felt over a 5-to-10 mile area south of Boston.

Heavy rainfall caused areas of flooding on I-93 and other major roadways in Massachusetts on Thursday morning.

The agency predicted rain would fall at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour, potentially overwhelming small creeks and streams, streets, highways and underpasses, as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

Several Massachusetts communities south of Boston received as much as over 5 inches of rain, with flooding closing several streets and parts of Interstate 93.

Boston is in for a muggy humid, hot week, according to National Weather Service forecasts, with more flooding possible as the week goes on.