Sheriff James Kostoplis | Official Website
Sheriff James Kostoplis | Official Website
The Burlington County Commissioners released a statement on last night’s severe storms and flash floods, acknowledging the efforts of first responders and public safety professionals.
“Burlington County has a highly trained team of first responders and public safety professionals, and once again, they proved their value last night. 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,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “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 experienced heavy rainfall on Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service, over seven inches of rain fell on Delran, while six inches fell in the New Albany section of Cinnaminson. Other notable totals included 4.1 inches in Willingboro, 3.8 inches in Burlington, three inches in Mount Laurel, and two inches in Moorestown.
Flooding significantly impacted towns along the Delaware River and Route 130 corridor but was reported across multiple areas including Burlington City, Burlington Township, Delanco, Delran, Edgewater Park, Mount Laurel, Palmyra, Riverside, Riverton, and Willingboro.
The downpour caused severe flooding on various roads and highways such as Route 130; small creeks and retention basins overflowed as well.
No injuries have been reported; however numerous vehicles became stranded in floodwaters on roadways.
First responders performed a total of 77 rescues involving vehicles trapped in flooded roads: 60 in Cinnaminson, 16 in Delran, and one in Willingboro.
Fifteen homes in Silver Park West community in Edgewater Park were evacuated due to flooding. The evacuees were taken to a community center; most were picked up by family members while three residents opted to stay at a hotel. No injuries among evacuees were reported.
Residents are urged to prepare disaster kits with essential items like medications, important documents, clothing,and necessary supplies,and be ready to evacuate if conditions worsen or if there is a mandatory evacuation order issued.
It is crucial for residents to monitor weather forecasts closelyand heed any emergency alerts from New Jersey,Burlington County or their local municipality.Residents can sign up for real-time alerts fromthe Burlington County Department of Public Safety’s CivicReady Emergency Alert system online at http://co.burlington.nj.us/210/Emergency-Notification-Systems.
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