Crime & Safety
Bucks Co. Flood Hotlines, Assistance Available
The United Way of Bucks County has a hotline for households impacted by the flash flooding. There's also a crisis cleanup hotline.
UPPER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA —Relief and resources are available for Bucks County residents who suffered during Saturday's fast-moving storm that claimed the lives of five people.
The Crisis Cleanup/Home Cleanup Hotline is open to help survivors of Saturday's flash flooding that hit Upper and Lower Makefield townships with about six inches of rain. Bucks County has declared a state of emergency.
The hotline is operated by the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (PA VOAD), in coordination with Bucks County and PEMA. Crisis Cleanup anticipates that this line will stay active through Friday, July 21.
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Survivors needing assistance can call 844-965-1386.
Meanwhile, the United Way of Bucks County said that flood-impacted households in Bucks County who need immediate assistance with basic needs (food, clothing, etc.) can connect with its HELP Center by calling 215-949-1660 or by visiting its help center.
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Appointments will be opened and extended as needed to meet community needs, the United Way said.
"Our hearts go out to all those affected by this weekend’s flash floods and the devastating loss of lives," the United Way said. "We understand the immense pain and suffering caused by this kind of tragedy. We are here to offer our support and assistance to our friends and neighbors. We are here for you, Bucks County."
Five people have been confirmed dead and their identities were released by Bucks County Coroner Meredith Buck on Monday. The victims include three from Newtown Township.
Meanwhile, the search continues for a missing brother and sister who were swept away in the floodwaters. The family revealed their identities Monday.
U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick said that authorities are continuing to assess the damages caused by the storm.
"We are now at the 48-hour mark since the storm and subsequent flash flood hit the Upper Makefield area," he said. "For the last two days, crews from all over the SEPA region have responded to the search and rescue mission and have been working around the clock. Our community is incredibly grateful for these brave women and men who have responded to this heartbreaking tragedy. Please pray with me for the victims, their families, and our brave first responders."
Fitzpatrick said he encourages everyone to contact their municipality to report any damages to their home or property.
"It is imperative that all damages are reported so our emergency services can assess the extent of the damages caused by the storm when considering a potential state or federal emergency declaration," the congressman said.
To report any damages, call:
- Lower Makefield: 267-274-1100
- Upper Makefield: 215-968-3340
The Upper Makefield Police Department said that the area was hit Saturday afternoon with a torrential rainstorm, which caused flash flooding along several areas throughout the township.
The worst of the flooding occurred along Rt. 532 in the area of Stonebridge Crossing Road between Aqueduct Road and Wrightstown Road.
Police said the flash flooding caught numerous motorists by surprise and many were trapped with the flood victims getting swept away into Houghs Creek.
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