New Jersey Declares State of Emergency
New Jersey Declares State of Emergency as Residents Brace for Heavy Rain and Flood Risks Along Passaic River
In a preemptive move to tackle an incoming storm, New Jersey has declared a state of emergency set to take effect at 5 p.m. Tuesday. The primary concern lies in the heavy rain and flood risks, particularly along the Passaic River, where residents are still grappling with the aftermath of last month’s flooding.
Mayors’ Request Denied as Passaic River Threatens Again
Mayors of Wayne, Pompton Lakes, and Lincoln Park have requested the opening of floodgates on Pompton Lakes Dam ahead of the storm to prevent downstream flooding. However, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has denied the request, citing that opening the dam would not effectively prevent flooding in this specific case.
Governor Murphy defended the decision, stating, “Based on the science associated with how these storms play and how the dams then behave, they feel the science is on the side of not doing that.” Despite the denial, residents are anxious, remembering the devastation from the previous storm just three weeks ago.
Communities Brace for Impact: Emergency Measures in Place
In anticipation of the storm, the mayor has declared a citywide emergency starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday. Emergency management teams are coordinating efforts with the fire and police departments, preparing for potential flooding along the Passaic River.
Troy Ayers, the Paterson Office of Emergency Management Coordinator, stated, “We are working with the fire department and police department to split their divisions to each side of the river, just in case it does flood that high.” A flash flood warning is set to be issued at 2 p.m., leading to the closure of certain streets, and a Red Cross-run shelter will be available for the next five days at 60 Temple Street.
Little Falls Remembers: Lingering Fears from Previous Flooding
Officials express concerns that the incoming system may worsen conditions not only in Paterson but also in Little Falls, where residents had to use boats to navigate flooded streets just last month. Mayor James Damiano mentions that cleanup efforts from the previous flood have just concluded, and the city is now preparing for another potential deluge.
Meteorologists emphasize the high-confidence forecast, attributing it to preexisting conditions such as swollen rivers and expected snowpack melting in northern New Jersey.
Long Island and NYC on High Alert
On Long Island, Suffolk County has declared a state of emergency, urging residents to use caution due to anticipated heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, and potential flooding. Nassau County officials are gearing up with drainage clearing and heavy-duty pumps if needed, while utilities prepare for dangerous wind gusts that could lead to power outages.
In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams has activated the flash flood emergency plan, issuing a travel advisory from Tuesday to Wednesday. The MTA imposes restrictions on empty tractor-trailers and tandem trucks at bridges and tunnels starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday. The Statue of Liberty is closing early at 4 p.m. Tuesday and will have a delayed opening on Wednesday.
As the storm approaches, communities across New Jersey, Long Island, and New York City remain on high alert, bracing for potential impacts and hoping that emergency measures will mitigate the effects of this challenging weather event. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
New Jersey Declares State of Emergency as Residents Brace for Heavy Rain and Flood Risks Along Passaic River In a preemptive move to tackle an incoming storm, New Jersey has declared a state of emergency set to take effect at 5 p.m. Tuesday. The primary concern lies in the heavy rain and flood risks, particularly…