Water rescues and flash flood warnings continue in parts of Connecticut after rain on Sunday, Aug. 18, brought heavy flooding to parts of the state. Some areas experienced a historic deluge, receiving more than 10 inches of rain in just 12 hours. Meteorologists termed the weather event a “once-in-1,000-year” rainfall.
Rivers reached major flood stages rapidly, roads were transformed into rushing waterways, and mudslides caused multiple evacuations.
In response, local emergency services, including fire and police departments, were called to numerous incidents involving stranded vehicles, flooded homes and missing people.
Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont reported that at least 100 people required assistance from search and rescue teams. Two people were reported missing after being swept away by the Little River in Oxford. Another 50 campers became stranded in Kettletown State Park due to washed-out bridges.
In Beacon Falls, firefighters rescued 19 people and a dog from a restaurant and home. They were trapped in over 100 feet of floodwaters.
Emergency crews responded to multiple car rescues as vehicles were overcome by heavy waters on the roadways.
Authorities asked people to stay off roads and not attempt to drive through floodwaters.
New York and New Jersey also saw powerful downpours.
The New York City Police Department warned of flooding in Central Park and several subway lines were down Monday morning.
