Newark Police officials reported that members of the Department of Public Safety rescued 86 people in 11 incidents related to Hurricane Henri thunderstorms.
According to a statement released by police, significant flooding resulted in multiple vehicles submerged in flooded areas, mainly in the Ironbound section of the city and the industrial areas of the South and East Wards.
Newark firefighters rescued 59 adults and 16 children in 7 incidents, and Newark Police have rescued 11 people in 4 incidents.
Police said rescue locations included:
Ferry and Foundry streets; McClellan Street and Frelinghuysen Avenue; Clifford and Van Buren streets; Johnson and Hermon streets; Foundry Street and Roanoke Avenue; Frelinghuysen Avenue and Toler Place; 171 Clifford Street; Foundry Street and Avenue P; Lafayette and Van Bruen streets; and Delancey and Stockton streets.
Drivers are strongly advised to avoid streets that are flooded or may become flooded.
At this time, the current flooding locations include:
- Avenue C and Emmet Street
- 544 Delancy Street
- Amsterdam Street and Wilson Avenue
- Ferry Street and Foundry Street
- Raymond Blvd. and Blanchard Street
- Foundry Street and Avenue P
- Foundry Street and Roanoke Avenue
- Mary Street and Avenue L
- Wilson Avenue and Avenue K
- Wilson Avenue and Avenue L
- Magazine Street and Amsterdam Street
- Wilson Avenue and Hyatt Avenue
- McClellan Street and Frelinghuysen Avenue
- Elizabeth and Meeker
“During today’s thunderstorms, it is essential that drivers seriously heed our advisories by not driving through flooded streets,” Director O’Hara added.
“While Newark Police and Firefighters will respond to every single call, the greater the number of required water rescues will only reduce our response times. We respectfully request that drivers do not risk becoming trapped in their vehicles because they chose to travel through flooded areas.”
Downed wires have been reported in the 100 block of Columbia Avenue with Newark Firefighters at the scene.
Officials say one power outage has been reported at Park Avenue and 11th Street, with PSEG responding.
The Department of Public Safety is coordinating responses to burglar alarms, flooding conditions and other weather-related incidents through the combined use of Police, Fire and Office of Emergency Management Personnel. Special attention should be given to unsecured outdoor furniture, awnings, refuse and building materials.
For fire safety, please utilize flashlights instead of candles, should you lose electricity due to this weather event.