UPDATED: Officials In The Caldwells Warn Of Flooding From Storm

CALDWELLS, NJ — The Caldwells are battening down the hatches as yet another storm passes through New Jersey: Ida.

The storm is expected to bring several inches of rain and flash flooding into the North Jersey area on Wednesday and Thursday. Read More: Flash Flood Watch For North Jersey As Ida Approaches

Officials in Caldwell, North Caldwell and West Caldwell each issued flood warnings for their towns.

NORTH CALDWELL

North Caldwell Mayor Joseph Alessi issued a storm advisory on Wednesday, warning residents about possible flooding.

WEST CALDWELL

In West Caldwell, police told drivers to "stay off the roads."

"Many streets are flooded over with rushing water," police stated Wednesday. "Remain home. Please don’t put our brave volunteers in harms way needlessly. Call us for any emergencies. Make smart decisions."

"The Passaic River at Pine Brook is expected to reach flood stage overnight tonight and reach major flood stage overnight into Friday morning," police added. "We ask residents to check your properties for any valuables that may be in areas that have been prone to flooding and place them inside and off the floor. If you have a stream or brook on your property remove valuables from the area and ensure it is clear of any debris and/or obstructions. River banks and culverts can become unstable and unsafe."

CALDWELL

On Tuesday afternoon, Mayor John Kelley released an advisory for local residents. He wrote:

“This morning, the borough participated in a call with Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo, along with Sherriff Armando Fontoura and the county's DPW and engineering leadership. During that call, we expressed our concerns regarding the remnants of Hurricane Ida and the potential for flooding in our community. I am working closely with the county to ensure they will prepare our culverts and catch basins on county roads in time for the storm.”

In the meanwhile, Caldwell residents should check the catch basins in front of their homes and made sure their sump pumps are in good working condition, Kelley said.

“The ground is saturated and we are expecting this to be yet another significant rain event,” the mayor advised.

He added:

“On Tuesday night, the Caldwell Police Department will be closing off part of the Smull Lot which flooded and damaged a number of vehicles during the last heavy rains. We will suspend parking meter enforcement on Wednesday and Thursday.”

PSEG is preparing for potential power outages. Caldwell residents can report downed wires to PSEG at 1-800-436-7734 or download the company’s mobile app to report outages and receive updates.

Meanwhile, the Caldwell Public Library shared a photo of storm preparations outside the building on Tuesday.

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