MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA — The Schuylkill River and several of its tributaries could flood in Montgomery and Chester counties during Wednesday’s rainstorms, officials are warning local residents.
Those who live in flood-prone areas, or who typically commute or travel on roads that have flooded during storms in the past few years, should be especially careful.
Up to three inches of rain was forecasted to fall in the area Wednesday into Thursday, and the Schuylkill is among several bodies of water forecasted to reach flood stage.
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“The rain will be heavy at times, with hourly rates reaching or exceeding an inch, with the more widespread and heaviest rain expected to fall this afternoon and early this evening,” the National Weather Service’s Mt. Holly, New Jersey branch said. “During the higher rainfall rates, local flash flooding cannot be ruled out. Excessive runoff may continue to cause rivers, creeks, and streams to rise through the end of the week even when the rain has ended.”
Here’s what the National Weather Service’s Advanced Hydrological Prediction Service forecasts for local flooding. The figure noted below is the highest level the water is expected to reach during the storm, which is at 1 a.m. Thursday morning.
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Local officials are urging drivers to avoid hitting the road in problem areas they can, and to avoid standing water at all costs.
“Turn around, don’t drown, a foot of water will float many vehicles,” State Sen. Carolyn Comitta said. “Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.”
If you encounter downed power lines, do not attempt to move them or cross over them. Report power outages to PECO at 1-800-841-4141, not 911.
Heavy rain is expected to taper off by Thursday, which should see partly sunny skies with highs in the low 50s.
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