Last Updated: March 31, 2010

And The Rains Came

Heavy rain, with winds up to thirty-five miles per hour, have pelted Long Island over the past few days. This has resulted in severe flooding due to the super-saturated ground that failed to absorb the surface runoff. The previous March record for rainfall was set in 1983 with 10.54 inches. However, with April just around the corner, this month could indeed be a record breaker.
Bayville Avenue in Bayville was under at least seven inches of water with basements flooding for the second time in as many weeks. Many residents thought that the nor’easter which battered the north shore earlier this month was the end of our extreme weather cycle. However, this near record rainfall has proven that wrong.
Chicken Valley Road, near the Planting Fields Arboretum was flooded. Wolver Hollow Road was under water, and Piping Rock Road was also very wet. A reader called to inform The Leader that West Shore Road, Oyster Bay was deluged with several inches of unwanted rainwater. The Long Island Railroad was reporting scattered delays due to the rain and the local highways were beset with heavy traffic due to the dangerous conditions. It was certainly not a good time to be at any of the area airports. Another reader commented on a flooded basement in Matinecock, that was still under water from the last storm.
Municipal authorities have cautioned drivers to be wary of water covered roadways and especially underpasses where the water depth could cause stalling and engine failure. Highway crews were working tirelessly to keep run off basins clear to accommodate the excessive water.
With Easter right around the corner, meterologists were predicting fairer skies and dry conditions for the rest of the week and into the long holiday weekend. No doubt, we all anxiously await these brighter days.

 

---