Flash flooding in NJ, CT triggers water rescues, shuts Tri-State roads

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Torrential rain triggered widespread flash flooding across the Tri-State area Sunday morning, stranding vehicles, closing major roadways and prompting water rescues from New Jersey to Connecticut.

Some of the most severe flooding was reported in Connecticut, where roads in New Haven, Stamford, Norwalk, Greenwich, Bridgeport and Westport were inundated by rapidly rising water. In New Haven, multiple roads were reported under several feet of water, and vehicles were stranded along Olive Street and Water Street.

In downtown Westport, businesses were submerged under floodwater. Vehicles also became trapped in floodwaters across Stamford, where firefighters responded to multiple water rescues.

Major highways were also impacted. Connecticut transportation officials reported flooding on Interstate 95 in several locations, including near Stamford and Westport, where multiple lanes were closed. Route 15 northbound was shut down between exits 21 and 27 in Fairfield County because of flooding.

In New Jersey, flash flooding overwhelmed roads in Passaic and Bergen counties. Video from Paterson showed numerous vehicles stranded on 11th Avenue, with some cars submerged nearly up to their windows. Flooded roads were also reported in Wayne, where Riverview Drive and Edison Drive were among the streets affected. In Bergen County, authorities reported road closures and vehicles trapped in floodwaters in communities including Norwood, Haworth, Glen Rock and Oradell.

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The flooding also disrupted Paterson's annual Dominican Parade. Officials delayed the start by one hour, from noon to 1 p.m., as flash flood warnings remained in effect. City leaders said they were monitoring conditions closely and working with emergency management officials to keep residents safe as waters gradually receded.

Flooding also caused significant issues in Westchester County. Multiple roads were closed in White Plains, while emergency crews in Port Chester responded to numerous water rescues. Floodwaters also forced lane closures on the Taconic State Parkway and Route 9A.

The flooding developed after intense downpours dumped several inches of rain in a matter of hours. In parts of North Guilford, Connecticut, officials reported 4 to 5 inches of rain falling in roughly two to two-and-a-half hours, overwhelming drainage systems and leaving roads impassable.

Conditions are expected to improve through the afternoon as the rain tapers off and skies begin to clear. However, officials continue to urge motorists to avoid flooded roadways and never attempt to drive through standing water.