The Burlington County Commissioners released the following statement on last night’s severe storms and flash floods:
“Burlington County has a highly trained team of first responders and public safety professionals, and once again, they proved their value last night,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “Close to 600 emergency 911 calls and 1,800 non-emergency calls were fielded by Burlington County Central Communications and the dispatch center’s telecommunicators during the storm and floods last night. More than 1,500 police, fire and emergency medical incidents were dispatched through Central Communications.”
“We’re tremendously thankful for the services of all first responders and public safety officials. While we’re relieved no injuries were reported, our emergency management team is concerned about the potential for more severe storms and floods this week. Residents are encouraged to be mindful of the weather and use extreme caution if driving during storms. We also recommend taking action now to prepare for the possibility of more flooding. Create an emergency supply kit and disaster plan for your family.”
Burlington County was inundated by torrential rains on Tuesday and early Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service, over 7 inches of rain fell on Delran and 6 inches fell on the New Albany section of Cinnaminson. Other rainfall totals were 4.1 inches in Willingboro, 3.8 inches in Burlington, 3 inches in Mount Laurel and 2 inches in Moorestown.
The most significant impacts occurred in towns along the Delaware River and the Route 130 corridor, however, floods were reported in several towns, including Burlington City, Burlington Township, Delanco, Delran, Edgewater Park, Mount Laurel, Palmyra, Riverside, Riverton and Willingboro.
The torrential rains caused severe flooding on several roads and highways, including Route 130, and small creeks and retention basins were overwhelmed.
No injuries have been reported, but numerous vehicles became stranded in floodwaters on roadways.
A total of 77 rescues were performed by first responders last night involving vehicles trapped in flooded roads: 60 in Cinnaminson, 16 in Delran and one in Willingboro.
Residences in 15 homes in the Silver Park West community in Edgewater Park were also evacuated due to flooding. They were taken to the development’s community center. Most were picked up by family members and three residents indicated they would stay in a hotel. No injuries were reported among the evacuees.
Residents are encouraged to prepare disaster kits with essential items such as medications, important documents, clothing and necessary supplies and be prepared to evacuate on short notice if conditions worsen or a mandatory evacuation order is issued.
Residents can sign up for real-time alerts and notifications from the Burlington County Department of Public Safety’s CivicReady Emergency Alert system online at http://co.burlington.nj.us/210/Emergency-Notification-Systems.
