Heavy rain pummels region and sparks isolated flash flooding
TRENTON, N.J. (WPVI) — Strong rainstorms lashed the East Coast Thursday, delaying flights and prompting emergency rescues of motorists trapped in deep water on busy highways from the Philadelphia area to New York City.
The National Weather Service issued warnings for up to 3 inches of rain per hour, leading to flooding in parts of the region.
In Delaware, a U.S. Postal Service truck and another vehicle became stranded in high water on Governor Printz Boulevard in Edgemoor, New Castle County. In Montgomery County, floodwaters consumed a car near Clearview Avenue and Donna Drive.
“He was able to get out himself. He rolled down his window because when he came through, the water just comes up really quickly,” recalled Kathy Gendelman, of Huntingdon Valley.
Heavy rain pummels region and sparks isolated flash flooding
Several lightning strikes were reported, including one in Aston, Delaware County, where a person using a landline phone felt an electric shock. Emergency crews responded, and the individual was reported to be unharmed.
In Towamencin Township, a home on Red Oak Way caught fire after being struck by lightning. Fire officials said the family was displaced, but no injuries were reported.
Flash flood warnings were up for parts of New Jersey and Philadelphia, while states of emergency were declared in New Jersey and New York City, where state workers were sent home early.
Wind-driven rain lashes Reading, Pa.
Airports in New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia reported significant delays and cancellations. Amtrak suspended service between Philadelphia and Wilmington, Delaware, due to high water over the tracks.
“Once a route is available, anticipate residual delays,” company officials posted on X.
The heart of the storm reached Delaware County around 2 p.m., where officials reported at least five water rescues.
“It’s something you can’t take lightly. Floodwaters happen and floodwaters occur, especially in Delco. We need to get the first responders out there and we’ve stood up the teams to do that,” said Edward Beebe, Delaware County’s emergency manager. “They are trained to go do these types of rescues, but nonetheless, they’re going into a dangerous and delicate situation as well.”
Tornado warnings were issued in New Jersey, though no twisters were confirmed. Some residents reported power outages.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
