A fast-moving round of storms Tuesday night dumped several inches of rain across the Finger Lakes, Central New York and Southern Tier, triggering flash flooding, road closures and emergency responses that stretched into the overnight hours.
What began as a line of strong storms — some severe-warned and even tornado-warned — quickly turned into a widespread flooding event, as rainfall totals reached 1 to 3 inches in many locations, with isolated areas seeing as much as 4 inches. The result was rapid runoff, overwhelmed drainage systems and rising creeks and rivers across the region.
What happened Tuesday night
Emergency responders across multiple counties reported a surge in calls as floodwaters covered roads, filled basements and created dangerous travel conditions.
Sheriff’s offices in Yates, Cayuga and Ontario counties all issued warnings about flooded roadways, urging drivers to avoid travel or proceed with extreme caution. In Yates County, fire departments were dispatched to pump out basements while crews dealt with debris and water-covered roads…