Severe Thunderstorms Trigger Flash Flood Warning In Cayuga County

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 26, 2025

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Cayuga County is currently under a flash flood warning due to severe thunderstorms unleashing torrential rainfall. This unexpected deluge poses a significant threat to residents, prompting immediate action and preparedness. This article details the situation, affected areas, and crucial safety guidelines. The unpredictable nature of these severe thunderstorms necessitates immediate attention to the flash flood warning.

Extent of the Flash Flood Warning in Cayuga County

The flash flood warning issued for Cayuga County is impacting several areas, necessitating immediate attention from residents. The most severely affected regions include the towns of Auburn, Weedsport, and Cato, along with portions of the village of Moravia. This severe weather event has led to rapid rises in water levels across the county.

• Specific locations experiencing significant flooding:
  • Sections of Route 34 near Owasco Lake.
  • Several neighborhoods in the southern part of Auburn, including areas near the Seneca River.
  • Low-lying areas along the Erie Canal in Weedsport.
  • Parts of Route 38 near the town of Cato.

The flash flood warning remains in effect until 8 PM tonight. The Seneca River and Owasco Creek are experiencing dangerous rises, exceeding their flood stages. Residents in proximity to these waterways are strongly urged to exercise extreme caution.

Rainfall Amounts and Impact

Cayuga County has already recorded over 4 inches of rainfall in some areas, with projections indicating an additional 1-2 inches before the storms subside. This record rainfall has led to catastrophic flooding in several communities. The impact of this heavy rainfall is widespread and severe:

• Reported Incidents:
  • Numerous reports of flooded basements and submerged vehicles.
  • Several roads are closed due to high water levels, causing significant traffic disruptions.
  • Emergency services are responding to multiple reports of water rescues.
  • Preliminary reports indicate damage to infrastructure, including some washed-out sections of roadways.

The dangerous conditions necessitate immediate action from residents to ensure personal safety. The sheer volume of water has overwhelmed drainage systems, leading to widespread property damage and posing significant safety risks.

Safety Guidelines and Precautions

The severity of the flash flood necessitates immediate attention to safety guidelines. Residents are urged to follow these crucial precautions:

• Avoid driving through flooded areas. The depth of the water may be deceiving, and even a small amount of water can sweep a vehicle away.
• Stay indoors and away from windows. Falling debris and strong winds pose significant dangers.
• Monitor weather reports and official updates. Stay informed about the evolving situation through reliable sources such as the National Weather Service and Cayuga County Emergency Management.
• Be aware of potential hazards like downed power lines. Never approach downed power lines; report them to authorities immediately.
• Prepare an emergency kit. Having essential supplies readily available is vital during such emergencies.
• Know high-risk areas within the county. Familiarize yourself with areas prone to flooding to take proactive steps for your safety.

For the latest updates and further information, visit the and the .

Resources and Support

Several resources are available to assist residents impacted by the flooding:

• Cayuga County Emergency Management: [Insert Phone Number and Website Link Here]
• American Red Cross: [Insert Phone Number and Website Link Here]
• FEMA: [Insert Website Link Here]

Currently, no official shelters are open; however, residents requiring emergency assistance should contact the Cayuga County Emergency Management immediately. Information regarding potential assistance programs will be released as it becomes available.

Conclusion

The flash flood warning in Cayuga County is a serious situation demanding immediate attention. The severe thunderstorms have caused record rainfall, leading to widespread flooding, road closures, and property damage. The areas most affected include Auburn, Weedsport, Cato, and parts of Moravia. It is crucial to heed the warnings and follow the safety guidelines outlined above. Stay informed about the evolving situation by monitoring weather alerts and official updates on the severe thunderstorms and flash flood situation. Your safety and the safety of your community depend on it. Continue to monitor official sources for updates on this developing severe thunderstorm and flash flood situation in Cayuga County.