Rain Eases, Floodwaters Drop, New Yorkers’ Anger Increases
TL/DR –
New Yorkers are dealing with damage from severe flooding due to heavy rain. The rain disrupted most subway lines and Metro-North was suspended for hours, and basement apartments in Brooklyn were flooded due to backed-up sewage systems. Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams criticized Mayor Eric Adams for his supposed lack of urgency before the storm, but Adams claimed he sent out notifications on Thursday afternoon.
New Yorkers Struggle with Flooding and Damage
NEW YORK – Friday witnessed widespread frustration among New Yorkers struggling with property damage and flooded basements due to heavy rain. The city’s storm drains were overwhelmed, leading to serious flooding.
One restaurant owner told CBS New York that the flooding was so severe she would’ve had to swim to reach her front door. She watched helplessly as her outdoor dining structure was washed away when the floodwater receded.
Regardless of whether New Yorkers were stuck in traffic on the FDR, battling subway waterfalls, or simply trying to get to work, the rain disrupted every aspect of city life on Friday. Majority of subway lines were disrupted, with Metro-North fully suspended from Manhattan.
MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber confirmed that while few buses were stranded, majority continued to operate.
Despite being urged to stay indoors, many New Yorkers found their homes threatened as sewer systems in parts of Brooklyn backed up, causing considerable damage.
Damage included destroyed laptops and furniture, and concerns over sanitation, as experienced by Williamsburg resident Thomas Trevisan. Gowanus Garden Restaurant owner Kelly Hayes explained the flooding’s devastating impact on her business, with sewage and floodwater causing over $10,000 in clear-up costs.
Hundreds of flights canceled and delayed after storm slams New York City
Now, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams are criticizing Mayor Eric Adams for perceived lack of urgency before the storm. Adams, however, maintains that his administration provided adequate warnings on Thursday afternoon.
Flooding allowed one New Yorker a small taste of freedom — a sea lion at the Central Park Zoo
Following the devastation caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida last year, New Yorkers were hoping the worst was over. However, Friday’s downpour proved otherwise, underscoring the city’s need for improved storm water infrastructure and climate response. Thankfully, the city reported no serious injuries from the storm, with only a few rescue operations needed.
As for Hayes, she remains hopeful to reopen her restaurant next week, despite the estimated $30,000 setback due to the damage.
Read More US News