Dozens Stranded, Car Catches Fire During Flash Flood

ST. JAMES, NY - Firefighters responded to 7 calls within about an hour and a half after cars became stranded and one caught on fire during the flash floods in St. James on Tuesday night.

According to the St. James Fire Department, starting at about 7:33 p.m. there were about 7 vehicles stuck taking in water by North Country Road and Edgewood Avenue and in front of the Mills Pond Elementary School on Moriches Road.

Over a dozen people attending a "meet the teacher" night at the elementary school became stranded after the event. The flash flood blocked both the front and the back entrance to the school.

Water was nearly waist high at some parts of the roadway.

Moriches Road was closed from Fairfield to Woodlawn Avenue until about 8:47 p.m. as vehicles were stranded and one BMW even caught fire.

Firefighters were assisted by bystanders in front of the elementary school.

In addition, 2 vehicles became stuck by the railroad trestle near Edgewood Avenue and North Country Road.

All occupants were removed safely and no injuries were reported.

The flood water levels decreased after firefighters cleared a blocked storm drain.

Photos: Facebook.com/St. James Fire Department