Recent heavy rainfall in Connecticut counties of New Haven and Fairfield has led to a flash flood emergency, resulting in the evacuation of about 100 people and leaving at least one person missing. Urban search and rescue crews have been actively involved in responding to the situation.
The National Weather Service issued warnings of 'widespread flooding and water rescues' on Sunday, with the emergency advisory later downgraded to a flood warning in effect until 10:30 a.m. Monday for cities like Waterbury, Danbury, and Fairfield.
First responders in Oxford, New Haven County, rescued 19 people and a dog from a flooded restaurant and nearby apartment. The region experienced 6 to 10 inches of rainfall in a short period, with some areas receiving up to 9.98 inches, causing significant flooding and water-related incidents.
Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont emphasized the state's commitment to assisting affected towns and ensuring public safety. The National Weather Service has forecast additional rainfall across the Northeast, posing a risk of excessive rainfall and potential flash flooding in parts of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and New York state.
Emergency management officials are actively engaged in ongoing water rescues, assessing dam integrity, and addressing road closures and infrastructure damage caused by the heavy rainfall. In New York, nearly 1 million people in Suffolk County are under a flash flood emergency, with warnings of flash flooding in various areas.
The severe weather conditions have led to road closures, suspended train services, evacuations due to mudslides and gas leaks, and the closure of state parks. Air travel has also been significantly impacted, with over 700 flights canceled at major airports near New York City due to thunderstorms.
The situation remains dynamic, with emergency response teams working diligently to address the aftermath of the flash flood emergency and ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
