Rain Storm in Linden Causes Flood & Damages

The City of Linden was hit by an epic rain storm yesterday, causing major flooding and damage to homes and vehicles in residential areas. At least 5.08 inches of rain fell in Linden within several hours, according to reports from North Jersey Weather Observers.

Although no injuries or casualties were reported, residential property damage to homes and cars was the number one post storm complaint. In some cases, the Linden Fire Department was forced to deploy an inflatable rescue craft to aid in resident retrieval due to rising waters and impassable streets. “Yesterday’s flooding was primarily the result of the intense rains being greater than the 100-Year Storm.” said Nicholas Pantina, Linden’s City Engineer. “Increased impervious surfaces in residential neighborhoods, resulting from redevelopment in these areas, create additional stormwater runoff, which contributes to increased street flooding before entering storm-sewer systems.”

Unlike redevelopment in residential and green areas, major redevelopment projects in non-residential areas, such as apartment complexes, commercial, and industrial developments under PILOT programs, require developers to build onsite infrastructure to manage increased stormwater stress based on findings from project-specific Stormwater Management Reports prior to approval. This process ensures that major redevelopment projects do not cause strain to existing stormwater infrastructure.

Linden’s first responders, Police, Fire, and EMS, were commended by residents and officials for their quick, selfless response. Councilman Alfred Rodriguez (9th Ward) joined Mayor Armstead surveying storm damage. “We owe so much to our first responders for their tireless work keeping residents safe,” said Councilman Eloy Delgado (6th Ward). “Seeing neighbors help neighbors on hard-hit streets like Clinton, 13th, 12th, Emma and others was inspiring. This community spirit is why I love Linden.”

Linden residents who need guidance related to the storm aftermath should contact the Mayor’s office at (908) 474-8493.