Torrential Rainfall Causes Widespread Flooding in Western New England and New York State
July 10, 2023, 11:46 am ET – Torrential rainfall has caused severe flooding across western New England and parts of New York State, leading to the evacuation of residents and the destruction of homes, roads, and bridges. The heavy downpour has left people stranded in their vehicles, with rescue efforts underway to assist those in need.
In Vermont, where the flooding is expected to worsen throughout the day, approximately 20 people have already been rescued by boat, and another two dozen have been evacuated from their homes. Tragically, one person, a woman in her 30s, has lost her life in the flooding in New York’s Hudson Valley.
Steven M. Neuhaus, the county executive in Orange County, N.Y., has stated that while the water levels have receded in some areas, the damage to infrastructure has made it challenging for search-and-rescue teams to reach affected residents. He expressed concerns that some individuals may have been swept away by the floods.
The National Weather Service in Burlington has issued a warning of “life-threatening flash flooding” continuing across Vermont, advising residents to avoid walking or driving into floodwaters. The Weather Service predicts that an additional six inches of rain could fall in some areas. Flash flooding has already affected five counties in northern Vermont, where up to three inches of rain have fallen so far. Counties in central Vermont, including Addison, Orange, Rutland, and Windsor, are at risk of flash flooding throughout the early afternoon.
In the Hudson Valley, the person who lost her life was attempting to evacuate her home with a dog when she was swept into a ravine. Transportation difficulties persist throughout the region, with dozens of flights canceled out of LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports in New York, as well as Boston Logan International Airport. Amtrak services between New York City and Albany have also been suspended.
Forecasters from the Weather Prediction Center have reported that central and northern New England have received 200 to 300 percent of their normal rainfall over the past 14 days. Streams are already flowing at abnormally high speeds, with some reaching record flows. This region had previously suffered significant flood damage in 2011 when Hurricane Irene caused infrastructure and home destruction.
Authorities are working diligently to assist those affected by the flooding and minimize further damage. The relentless rainfall and subsequent flooding serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather patterns and the importance of preparedness in vulnerable areas.
This article includes reporting by Claire Moses.
Sources:
– ABC’s “Good Morning America”
– The National Weather Service in Burlington
– FlightAware, a flight tracking service
– The Weather Prediction Center