Rescue efforts were underway in rural New York and Pennsylvania as heavy rain from the remnants of Debby caused intense flooding in the Northeast. First responders conducted high-water and helicopter rescues to assist people trapped in cars and homes.
The worst flash flooding in New York was concentrated in villages and hamlets in a rural area south of the Finger Lakes, near the Pennsylvania border. Evacuations were ordered in Steuben County, with several towns affected and residents trapped due to impassable roads.
In the hamlet of Woodhull, a rain-swollen creek caused water to overtop a bridge, carrying debris like sheds, branches, and uprooted trees. The community experienced significant damage, with reports of businesses in Woodhull suffering destruction.
Areas in Steuben County, including Canisteo and Andover, also faced severe flooding, with farm owners and residents witnessing the swift rise of floodwaters causing significant damage and loss.
The storm also impacted Pennsylvania, where Tioga County requested assistance for multiple rescue locations, and Potter County experienced bridge collapses and roadway damage. More than 150,000 customers were without power in both states.
Debby, downgraded to a tropical depression, made multiple landfalls after hitting the Gulf Coast of Florida as a Category 1 hurricane. Vermont’s Governor warned of potential damage from the remnants of Debby, particularly in areas already hit by flash flooding in the previous month.
Additional flooding occurred in Annapolis, Maryland, and Moncks Corner, South Carolina, where emergency crews conducted high water rescues. Dam breaches were reported in Georgia, causing evacuations and livestock losses.
At least eight people have died as a result of the storm, primarily due to vehicle accidents or fallen trees.
This story has been updated to correct information about Jaqi Kincaid’s flooding experience.
Contributors to this report include journalists from various locations across the Northeast and South.
