Severe Storms Soak the Region
The National Weather Service reported rainfall rates of up to three inches per hour, overwhelming storm drains and leaving vehicles stranded on major highways.
Motorists were forced to abandon their cars as floodwaters rose rapidly. Emergency crews performed multiple rescues, including in Delaware, where a U.S. Postal Service truck and another vehicle were caught in deep water along Governor Printz Boulevard in Edgemoor.
Dramatic Water Rescues
In Berks County, Pennsylvania, a police officer used construction equipment to reach a man trapped inside his car on State Hill Road in Wyomissing. Nearby in Reading, one vehicle was nearly submerged under an overpass, while another person waded through shallower floodwaters.
Montgomery County also faced dangerous conditions, where a car became engulfed near Clearview Avenue and Donna Drive. The driver managed to escape by rolling down his window as water rose swiftly.
Lightning Strikes and Fire Hazards
Severe thunderstorms brought frequent lightning, including an incident in Aston, Delaware County, where a person experienced an electric shock while using a landline phone. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
In Towamencin Township, a home on Red Oak Way caught fire after being struck by lightning, displacing a family. Fire officials confirmed no one was hurt in the blaze.
Trees Down, Cars Crushed
With saturated soil and high winds, trees toppled throughout the region. In Caln Township, Chester County, a large tree fell onto a car, trapping the driver. Firefighters managed to rescue the individual, who escaped without injuries.
States of Emergency and Flight Disruptions
Flash flood warnings remained in effect for parts of New Jersey and Philadelphia, while both New Jersey and New York City declared states of emergency. Some state employees in New York were sent home early as conditions worsened.
At Philadelphia International Airport, storms caused a four-hour ground stop, leading to widespread flight cancellations and delays. Airports across New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia reported significant travel disruptions, with delays expected to continue into Friday, according to FlightAware.
Amtrak temporarily suspended train service between Philadelphia and Wilmington, Delaware, due to high water on the tracks. Service resumed later in the evening, though delays persisted.
Officials Urge Caution Amid Ongoing Threat
The storm’s heaviest rainfall hit Delaware County around 2 p.m., prompting at least five water rescues.
“Floodwaters happen quickly, especially in Delco,” said Edward Beebe, Delaware County’s emergency manager. “Our first responders are well-trained for these rescues, but each operation is dangerous and delicate.”
Tornado warnings were briefly issued in New Jersey, but no twisters were confirmed. Scattered power outages were also reported across the region.
