Bucks Co. Storm Report: 6 Water Rescues, More Than 100 Road Closures

DOYLESTOWN, PA — Emergency crews responded to at least six water rescues during the height of the rain and wind storm that swept through Bucks County Tuesday evening and early Wednesday morning.

As stormy conditions cleared out of the region Wednesday morning, the Bucks County Emergency Management Agency deactivated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) although staff are continuing to monitor water levels, especially along the Neshaminy Creek and the Delaware River.

Heavy rainfall from Tuesday’s storm caused the Neshaminy to swell beyond its banks and into adjacent areas and roadways, but flooding was beginning to recede as of late Wednesday morning.

Tidal flooding was reported along the Delaware River in the low-lying and flood-prone areas, including at the Bristol Wharf and the Mill Street parking lot in Bristol Borough. Above the fall line, the river is forecast to crest at 18.8 feet at midnight on Thursday, Jan. 11 at Trenton and 13.8 feet at Washington Crossing at 7 p.m. on Wednesday.

A combination of strong winds and heavy rain falling on saturated ground toppled trees and wires countywide, forcing more than 100 road closures throughout the night, said the county's EOC. It also resulted in six water rescues, including one in Warwick where two people were stranded by the flood waters.

Though most roads have since reopened, some closures persisted Wednesday morning as crews worked to remove obstructions or waited for flood waters to recede.

Motorists are reminded to not drive around barricades or into flooded roadways. Just a few inches of water can lift or move a vehicle, rendering it inoperable and potentially stranding passengers.

Municipalities in Bucks as of Wednesday morning had not reported any major property or
infrastructural damage, though damage assessments were expected to continue throughout the day.

Residents or business owners who have suffered property damage as a result of winds or flood waters from Tuesday’s storm should report any impacts to their township or borough.

In addition to river levels, the county is also monitoring another advancing storm system that is expected to bring more rain to the area later this week.