The devastating aftermath of a flash flood in Upper Makefield Township, Pennsylvania, has left the community in shock. Over the weekend, a sudden and severe storm resulted in a deadly flood that took five lives, including a mother whose two young children are still unaccounted for. The storm unleashed over seven inches of rain in less than an hour, causing a torrent on General Washington Memorial Boulevard and nearby areas.
When the floodwaters rose, eleven vehicles were on the road. Three of these were swept away, and upon recovery, authorities found at least one deceased victim inside. Another victim was located outside their vehicle. Two additional bodies were discovered in a creek about a mile from the road on Sunday.
In the ongoing search for the two missing children, a 9-month-old boy and his 2-year-old sister, approximately 100 rescue workers have been scouring Hughes Creek and its surrounding area. Despite challenging weather conditions, the search is set to continue until Monday night and will be reassessed on Tuesday morning.
The children’s mother was one of the five flood victims. The family, who were visiting from South Carolina, were on their way to a barbeque when their car was engulfed by the floodwaters. While the father and his four-year-old son managed to escape the vehicle and reach safety, the mother, grandmother, and two younger children were swept away. The grandmother is currently reported to be in stable condition.
In the wake of the flood, eight people were rescued from their vehicles, and two more were saved from the creek. Authorities have confirmed that none of the vehicles had driven into the floodwaters; they were already on the road when the rain became perilous.
The flood also wreaked havoc on the local infrastructure, leaving roads in ruins and many closed due to damage or fallen trees. PennDOT has advised motorists of the closures and provided alternative routes. The closures are expected to last for an extended period while repairs are made.
Governor Josh Shapiro has pledged his support to the community, stating, “We have your backs. We will be here as long as it takes to make sure Bucks County gets back up on its feet.”