Video, Photos: Flash Flood Warning in Effect in Greenwich

Heavy rain caused flash flooding across multiple Connecticut towns on Sunday morning, closing roads and stranding vehicles.

In Greenwich, flash flood warning has been issued until 11:00am.

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for all of Southern Fairfield County as well as Southern Westchester County due to heavy thunderstorms producing 1 to 2 inches of rain per hour.

First Selectman Camillo is urging drivers to stay off Greenwich roads if possible, particularly in low-lying areas and areas prone to flooding.

“If you must travel, please exercise caution and if you encounter any flooded roads, please turn around immediately,” the town said in an alert. “Most flood deaths occur in vehicles so please do not take any risks. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”

Typically, excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other drainage areas and low-lying spots.

Greenwich Police warned drivers never to attempt to drive through a flooded roadway.

Even if water covering a roadway appears shallow, it can still be extremely dangerous. Floodwater can hide washed-out pavement, debris, open drainage areas, and other hazards that are impossible to see from your vehicle.

Just 6 inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, about 12 inches can carry away a small vehicle, and roughly 18–24 inches can sweep away larger vehicles.

Never assume you know how deep the water is or that a familiar road is safe to cross. During heavy rainfall, water levels and currents can rise quickly.

If you encounter a flooded roadway:

Stop and turn around.
Never drive around barricades or road closure signs.
Do not follow another vehicle into floodwater.
Find an alternate route and allow extra travel time.
If your vehicle becomes surrounded by rapidly rising water, prioritize getting yourself to a safe location.
If you can’t see the roadway, don’t drive through it.

At Grass Island the smell of sewage was unmistakable Sunday afternoon. People were walking through water in the roadway, people were fishing and people let their dogs swim in the harbor.