Chief Issues Flood Watch Advisory

Chief of Police Frank Papapietro is advising New Milford residents of a flood watch that is in effect for Bergen County until Saturday morning. In anticipation of the storm, he sent a reverse 911 out this afternoon notifying residents of the impending storm.

According to Papapietro, current weather forecasts predict heavy rainfall beginning early Thursday morning and continuing through early Friday morning resulting in approximately 3 to 4 inches of rain throughout Bergen County. Winds are expected to be 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 30 to 40 mph during the evening hours. 

"We are watching this storm very carefully in light of the fact that the ground is already saturated from the recent rainfall," he said.

Papapietro is asking residents to use caution when driving in these conditions. 

"If this storm stays on track and we get heavy rainfall, residents should exercise care when driving and avoid driving through any standing water as it may be deeper than it appears, causing your engine to get flooded and your car to stall."

Anyone in low-lying areas should move their cars to higher ground, he advised.

"If you must drive in this weather, drive slowly and carefully," Papapietro added.  

Papapietro said that he will be issuing updates as they become available. 

Click here if you would like to be added to Chief Papapietro's reverse 911 calls. 

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