UPPER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP, Pa. – At least three people were killed Saturday and several others have been reported missing after flash flooding in eastern Pennsylvania.
Nearly 5 inches of rain fell in the Makefield Township area of Bucks County, which resulted in rapid flooding and extensive damage. FOX 29 Philadelphia reported that the deluge overtook vehicles near a river in the Washington Crossing area.
Bucks County Coroner Meredith Buck said three people – two females and a male – died in the flooding in Upper Makefield Township. All three were found outside their vehicles.
“That number may rise,” Buck said, adding that several other people have been reported missing in the floodwaters.
Lower Makefield Township Police Chief Kenneth Coluzzi said the flooding has damaged several roads throughout the town. He said some roads have been washed away, and others have been blocked to traffic until safety assessments can be completed.
U.S. HAS ENTERED PEAK FLASH FLOODING SEASON
FOX 29 reported that multiple roads in eastern Bucks County have also been closed because of flooding damage or fallen trees.
More heavy rain is expected across the Northeast on Sunday. About 40 million people in the region are under a Flood Watch, and forecasters warn that flash flooding is very likely from eastern Pennsylvania to southern Maine. As much as 5 inches of rain is possible in some places.
This flooding comes just days after heavy rain in Vermont caused catastrophic flooding and extensive damage in several parts of the state. At least one person was killed.