By: Richard L. Smith
Image: File
If you’re heading out across New Jersey this morning, slow down and remember one important message: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Fire departments across the state have already responded to multiple water rescue incidents after drivers became trapped in vehicles surrounded by floodwaters during the overnight hours.
Emergency crews in Somerset, Bergen and Passaic counties were called to several reports of occupied vehicles in rising water, with firefighters rescuing motorists from dangerous conditions.
The incidents included:
- Raritan, where emergency crews responded to a vehicle in the water near Bell Avenue and Route 206.
- Glen Rock, where firefighters rescued occupants from a vehicle trapped in floodwaters near the Maple Avenue underpass.
- Hawthorne, where one victim was removed from a vehicle on Route 208.
- Paterson, where firefighters rescued occupants from multiple vehicles, including one incident where two people were forced onto the roof of their vehicle while waiting for help.
These rescues come as heavy rain continues to move across New Jersey this morning.
A Flood Watch remains in effect for much of the state, and periods of torrential rainfall could quickly overwhelm storm drains, flood low-lying roadways, and create hazardous travel conditions through the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are expected throughout the day with rainfall rates capable of producing localized flash flooding.
Temperatures will climb into the lower 80s, but the biggest concern today will be the heavy rain and flooded roads.
Remember, it only takes a small amount of moving water to carry away a vehicle. If you encounter a flooded roadway:
- Never drive around barricades.
- Do not assume you know how deep the water is.
- Find another route, even if it takes a few extra minutes.
- If you become trapped, call 911 immediately if it is safe to do so.
The message from emergency responders is simple and could save your life:
Turn Around. Don’t Drown. No destination is worth risking your life.
Stay with RLS Media for continuing weather updates and traffic information throughout the day.