Leominster, Massachusetts – In a harrowing turn of events, firefighters from Leominster, joined by colleagues from neighboring regions, have embarked on a relentless mission to rescue stranded motorists and residents grappling with floodwaters. The National Weather Service has sounded the alarm, declaring a flash flood emergency for Leominster, Fitchburg, and Lunenburg, effective until 8 a.m. on Tuesday. Urgent advisories encourage people in the affected areas to seek higher ground and exercise utmost caution.
As of 10 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service reported a staggering accumulation of up to 9 inches of rain since the afternoon, adding to the crisis. The deluge of heavy rain relentlessly battered northern Worcester County, wreaking havoc on Leominster in particular. Many roadways in the city succumbed to the rising waters, with some streets rendered impassable as asphalt gave way under the relentless assault. There were also reports of building foundations being compromised, adding to the severity of the situation.
Amid the chaos, residents of the Meadowbrook Acres mobile home park on Central Street in Leominster were swiftly evacuated as floodwaters encroached upon their homes. The Frances Drake Elementary School on Viscoloid Avenue has been pressed into service as a shelter, offering refuge to those displaced by the disaster.
One of the most dramatic scenes unfolded on Exchange Street, where flooding transformed the area into a powerful river. Just shy of 11 p.m., Leominster officials initiated the evacuation of select houses in the vicinity. Nearby Monoosnoc Brook surged with an overpowering force, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Route 2, a major thoroughfare, remained closed in both directions late into the evening on Monday. Portions of the highway found themselves submerged under at least 4 feet of water. Secondary roads in the vicinity fared no better, with deep waters submerging them and prompting motorists to abandon their vehicles. In this dire scenario, firefighters and other valiant rescuers stepped in to ensure the safety of those who remained stranded.
Further north in Leominster, Route 13 bore the brunt of heavy flooding, particularly at the railroad underpass just north of Route 2. This inundation led to the suspension of commuter trains that typically traverse the bridge, as confirmed by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.
Leominster’s Mayor, Dean Mazzarella, declared a state of emergency, recognizing the enormity of the crisis. School activities in Leominster were suspended for Tuesday, as the safety of the community took precedence. In a video post on Facebook, Mayor Mazzarella issued a heartfelt plea to residents, urging them to stay indoors and exercise caution. He revealed that he had engaged in discussions with Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, receiving assurances of unwavering state support during these challenging times.
As Leominster grapples with this unforeseen natural disaster, the resilience of its community shines through, bolstered by the dedication of courageous firefighters and the support of government authorities. The situation remains dynamic, and updates continue to pour in, underscoring the importance of staying informed and vigilant in the face of adversity.
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