Sunday's early downpours cause flooding headaches in parts of the Tri-State Area, tell me about this news in (https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/flash-flooding-paterson-new-jersey-westport-connecticut/)
14-09-2026
Early downpours on Sunday morning caused severe flash flooding across parts of the Tri-State Area, heavily impacting communities in northern New Jersey and southern Connecticut:
- Paterson, New Jersey: Intense rainfall rapidly inundated neighborhoods, particularly around 11th Avenue and 25th Street. Water levels rose so quickly that residents were unable to move their vehicles in time, resulting in numerous waterlogged and damaged cars, as well as submerged basements. Longtime residents voiced frustration over recurring flood damage and what they described as a lack of long-term mitigation. In response, Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh highlighted the impact of climate change, noting that while the city has made infrastructure investments, substantial federal support is necessary to resolve the issue.
- Fairfield County & Westport, Connecticut: Severe downpours left multiple roadways impassable. In Westport, emergency crews responded in full force, and the fire department conducted 13 rescues to free drivers trapped inside flooded vehicles. First responders also handled emergency calls regarding electrical burning odors caused by flooded home basements. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
- Travel & Transit Disruptions: Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont urged the public to stay home and off the roads due to hazardous conditions. The flooding caused temporary shutdowns on Metro-North rail lines, while Amtrak suspended service between New York Penn Station and Boston as tracks near New Haven were assessed for safe reopening.