Weather
Bergen County Towns Flood As First Of 2 Storms Hits Area
"First responders saved countless lives," said one Bergen County mayor after flooding. Now cars are soaked and several pets need homes.
BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — Shoppers got stranded at a ShopRite, cars were submerged, and pets from two flooded kennels now need homes thanks to heavy rains that drenched Bergen County on Tuesday night.
Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Debby is heading toward the area, with "moderate" flooding predicted for Friday. (Use the trackers here to see just how many miles away the storm is from Bergen County.)
On Tuesday night, an estimated 5.9 inches of rain dropped on Englewood, said an official.
Find out what's happening in Ridgewood-Glen Rockwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Mayor Michael Wildes said in a message Wednesday, "Many questions on ShopRite. Text message to the mayor from the owner: 'We are ok so far thank you. Parking lot flooded but receded. Hopefully we are through the heavy stuff.' Englewood received 5.9 inches of rain last evening: all after 3:30 p.m."
He added, "First responders saved countless lives. Beware of weakened trees along pedestrian and vehicular ways. Stay safe."
Find out what's happening in Ridgewood-Glen Rockwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
On Wednesday, shortly after noon, several lanes of traffic on Route 17 North were closed due to flash flooding.
See rainfall reports for local towns here.
Residents and neighbors posted photos and video of cars in Englewood submerged almost to their roofs.
Flash floods have caught people off guard and proved fatal in storms. Safety officials frequently remind drivers not to try to drive through floodwaters.
"Turn around; don't drown," begged first responders in Hackensack, urging people to spread the word on Tuesday night.
(Got a flooding photo in Bergen County? Send it to Patch including how you want your photo credit to read.)
Activities Canceled In Glen Rock, More
Besides flooding and downed trees, numerous towns had to cancel activities like National Night Out, including Glen Rock.
And two kennels in Englewood flooded, say animal lovers, who have posted about the dogs that need homes.
Bergen County is in the path of Tropical Storm Debby, expected to bring up to 2.5 inches of rain from Thursday to Friday. See links to the forecast and a tracker that will tell you how far away the storm is here.
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