Orange County has been hit hard by torrential rains and severe storms, leading to a state of emergency declaration by Governor Kathy Hochul. The flooding has been described as "life-threatening," resulting in at least one reported fatality.
Tragically, a woman in her mid-30s lost her life while attempting to evacuate her house in Highland Falls. As she and her dog tried to reach her car amidst mass flooding, they were swept away by the floodwaters. The woman's body was later discovered, while the dog was found safe and taken in by a neighbor. Highland Falls and southern Orange County experienced the brunt of the devastation, rendering most roads impassable.
The heavy rainfall, which reached nearly 8 inches in Orange County, transformed streets into rushing rivers. Cars became submerged, including those on Thayer Road at West Point. Dozens of people required rescue operations, prompting officials to issue warnings for residents to stay home and avoid venturing out onto the dangerous roads.
Governor Hochul assured close communication with local authorities and the deployment of state agencies to aid in search-and-rescue efforts. Rockland County, neighboring Orange County, also faced significant challenges, with several individuals requiring rescue. In Stony Point, crews had to employ boats to save a man near Lowland Hill Road, while six hikers, including a child with a head injury, were rescued at Bear Mountain.
The impact of the heavy rain was evident throughout the area, with water flooding the Chabad of Stony Point Synagogue, necessitating prayers inside while the water reached the windows. Vehicles parked at the Penguin Rep Theatre were submerged and had to be towed. Major road closures, such as Route 9-W and sections of the Palisades Parkway, were implemented for safety purposes.
As the recovery process continues, travel conditions are expected to remain challenging. Route 9-W and the Palisades Parkway north of Exit 14 will remain closed until authorities deem them safe for use. Local residents expressed their astonishment at the magnitude of the flooding, emphasizing the need for caution and urging everyone to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Stay updated on the latest developments and travel advisories as Orange County and its neighboring regions work towards recovery from this devastating flood event.