Road closed due to heavy flooding. Use caution.
Road closed due to heavy flooding. Use Caution.

Nearly 20 people rescued as floodwaters overwhelm Paterson after heavy rain

Officials warn the Passaic River is still rising, with flooded roads and dangerous conditions expected to continue through the day.

PATERSON, NJ — Nearly 20 people were rescued after rapidly rising floodwaters swept through parts of Paterson following heavy rainfall, as officials warn the Passaic River remains at dangerous levels.

The Paterson Police Department said the river remained high Wednesday following Tuesday’s storms, with flooding continuing in low-lying areas.

Officials said river levels are expected to crest later Wednesday before gradually receding, but flooded roadways and fast-moving water continue to pose a serious risk.

During Tuesday’s flooding, Paterson firefighters rescued approximately 20 people who became trapped by rapidly rising floodwaters.

Police are urging residents to avoid flooded areas and follow safety precautions, including turning around rather than driving through flooded roads, never bypassing barricades and staying away from flooded riverbanks and moving water.

Officials also warned residents to keep children and pets away from floodwaters.


Key Points

  • Paterson firefighters rescued approximately 20 people during Tuesday’s flooding.
  • The Passaic River remains high, with flooding continuing in low-lying areas.
  • Officials urge motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded roads and fast-moving water.
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News