URGENT UPDATE: Two lives have been tragically lost in separate basement flooding incidents in New York City as the region grapples with unprecedented rainfall. The incidents occurred on Thursday, July 15, 2023, amid severe weather that has left a profound impact across the city.
Emergency responders were first alerted to a flooded basement in Flatbush, Brooklyn, where a 39-year-old man became trapped while attempting to rescue his pets. Despite the quick response from the fire department’s scuba team, he was pronounced dead at a local hospital. Witnesses report that the man had saved one dog but returned to save another, leading to his tragic fate. Neighbor Renée Phillips shared her shock, stating, “This day has been horrific.”
Just minutes later, authorities responded to a separate incident in Washington Heights, where a 43-year-old man was found unresponsive inside a basement boiler room. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigations into the precise causes of death are ongoing, and the names of the victims have not yet been released.
“We’re devastated that two New Yorkers have died due to today’s rainfall,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams on X. “Their deaths are tragedies.”
Today’s torrential downpour shattered three daily rainfall records for the area. Initially forecast to unfold over several hours, the heaviest rainfall struck in a mere 10-minute window, creating chaos across the city. The New York City Parks Department received over 140 reports of downed trees, while thousands faced power outages.
The storm also disrupted travel, prompting ground stops and delays at John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority reported significant subway delays due to water accumulation on tracks.
This intense weather event is part of a troubling trend of increasingly severe and sudden downpours that have become more common in recent years, according to a spokesperson for the city’s environmental protection department. “DEP teams continue to respond across the city to address flooding reports and assist with drainage efforts,” the spokesperson added.
As New Yorkers come to grips with the loss of life and widespread disruption, authorities continue to monitor the situation. Residents are urged to stay informed and heed safety warnings as more rain is expected.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for community preparedness in the face of extreme weather. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.