Ridgewood OEM Preparing for Flash Flooding

Ridgewood officials are readying for a tropical storm that could result in flooding in the village.

Tropical Storm Andrea is expected to impact the Ridgewood area Friday night into Saturday. As much as four inches of rain may fall in the village, which has seen numerous flood events in recent years.

"Since this is a rain event – no significant wind expected – we follow a flooding event checklist," OEM Director Jeremy Kleiman said of preparations. That checklist includes an analysis of staffing levels needed, and notifying the public.

The event is not expected to sustain, with only flash floods in the normal localized areas (by the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook) anticipated.

"Usually [there is] a sudden onset and then it recedes just as quickly," Kleiman said.

The Ridgewood OEM is advising residents to monitor forecasts and is asking property owners in low-lying areas to consider moving their vehicles to higher ground. 

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for Bergen County from Friday morning through Saturday afternoon.

For more information on flood preparedness, check out the Ridgewood OEM site and sign up for e-notices.