Heavy Rains from Debby Lead to Flooding in New York, Warnings Issued
A tropical deluge courtesy of Debby, a once-static storm, has been causing havoc in the state of New York. After several days of unsettling stillness in the Southeast, Debby has uprooted and is making its way to the north, threatening to raise the flood risks significantly from the mid-Atlantic right through to New England. The immense rainfall has already catalyzed intense instances of flooding throughout the state.
Rescue Operations Amidst Rising Waters
The Bath Volunteer Fire Department’s Swift Water Rescue Team made two successful rescues on Friday, demonstrating efficient response under pressure from many quarters across the region. The most severely affected region of Southern Steuben County witnessed flash flooding as remnants of Tropical Storm Debby banished several inches of rain in the area on Friday morning. A resident trapped by the flood waters in their house in the town of Jasper was successfully saved and transported to a safe zone. Also in Steuben County, three individuals stranded atop their submerged vehicle managed to get to the bank and were subsequently rescued and taken to safety.
Caution on Waterways
Following heavy Friday deluge, Ontario County Sheriff David Cirencione issued a warning to boaters on Canandaigua Lake. The sheer volume of debris being swept into the lake is causing navigational hazards. Despite ongoing debris clearing efforts, boaters are urged to exercise extreme caution on the waters.
Dramatic Scenes from Naples
In Naples, the flood watch alerts were no exaggeration. The town witnessed torrential downpours reminiscent of a monsoon. The rainfall caused Naples Creek to burst its banks, affecting several homes in the vicinity. Waterfalls at Grimes Glen Park were seen carrying a torrent of water and debris towards the village.
State of Emergency Declared
The Steuben County Office of Emergency Management took firm measures on Friday by declaring a state of emergency and encouraging residents to avoid any unnecessary travel until it’s safe to do so. Thus far, the communities of Woodhull, Addison, and Jasper have been evacuated due to potential danger from flash floods and leaking propane storage tanks.
Flood & Flash Flood Warnings
The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a flood warning through 6:45 p.m. Friday for Monroe, Ontario, Livingston, Wayne, and Allegany counties. Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is imminent. A flash flood warning has also been extended to parts of Steuben and Yates counties. The risk of flash floods caused by the heavy rain is significant.
Storm’s Impact on Air Traffic
The ripple effects of the storm are being felt in the aviation sector with New York City metropolitan airports experiencing flight disruptions due to heavy rain and other storm-related weather events. Passengers are advised to keep an eye on their flight status to avoid any inconvenience.
Utility Companies Ready to Tackle Storm Aftermath
Anticipating storm damages and potential power outages, major utility companies like Rochester Gas and Electric and New York State Gas & Electric have already arranged work crews and equipment to handle any resultant scenarios. They have additional crews on standby to expedite any restoration work as needed over the weekend.
Record Rainfall With Debby
The threat levels Debby brings with it are significant. This storm spawned tornadoes and unleashed a torrential amount of rainfall in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas, wreaking considerable damage to property, causing widespread flooding and leaving communities overwhelmed. Its impact has been so severe that in some areas, the levels of rain and stream have broken historical records.
Debby Storm Projection
The National Weather Service is tracking Debby’s progression and predicts it to bring up to 6 inches more rain to some areas over the weekend, escalating the risk of life-threatening flash floods. Residents in potentially affected areas, including the Finger Lakes region and Central New York, are on high alert as torrential downpours and subsequent flooding is expected in these zones over the coming days.
Further Risks
Into the weekend, the risk of flash floods carrying debris, knocking over trees, and damaging power lines remains severe. The recent spike in power outages reported in Florida and Virginia illustrate the force of Debby’s impact. Authorities and residents alike must remain vigilant as the storm continues its path.
