Cleanup efforts are underway in parts of upstate New York following two days of heavy rains that caused flash flooding, necessitating water rescues and leading to the destruction of a historic grist mill.
Nearly a foot of rain fell in parts of Columbia and Rensselaer counties near Albany during a 48-hour period ending Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service. The state capital, Albany, received 8 inches of rain in the same timeframe.
First responders in Albany and several surrounding towns reported rescuing individuals from their homes and vehicles on Wednesday as waterways and streets became inundated. Crews also worked to pump water out of flooded basements. Officials confirmed no deaths or injuries, and floodwaters began receding on Thursday.
Images and videos shared online depicted stranded vehicles submerged up to their door windows, farmland covered by rainwater, and fast-moving floodwaters spilling onto roadways.
Grist Mill Destruction
In Castleton-on-Hudson, the owner of a centuries-old grist mill, Andy Klein, was alerted to the rising water by a neighbor early Wednesday. The adjacent creek overflowed its banks, flooding his property with 3 to 4 feet of water and destroying the oldest section of the mill located next to his residence. Klein described the event as "horrible" and "a very sad event," noting the historical significance of the structure.
The water treatment plant in Castleton-on-Hudson also sustained damage, prompting local officials to issue a boil water advisory for residents and urge them to conserve water.
Heavy rainfall earlier in the week also affected other areas of New York, as well as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, causing street flooding and requiring water rescues.