Long Island Expressway Jammed for Miles as Cars Get Stuck in Rising Floodwaters

It caused a backup on the L.I.E. just as holiday travelers were hitting the road

Several vehicles got stuck in floodwaters at an underpass on the Long Island Expressway during the evening rush Friday, jamming traffic for miles just as holiday travelers were hitting the road. 

The cars got caught in rising floodwaters near the Woodhaven Boulevard exit on the westbound side of the expressway at about 5 p.m., according to the FDNY. The emergency response caused delays on both sides of the L.I.E.

Firefighters rescued drivers who were stuck in the water, and tow trucks were brought in to get the vehicles out. 

DEP officials are looking at poor drainage in the area as a possible cause of the severe flooding. 

No one was hurt.

The section of the L.I.E. remained closed Friday night as workers continued to clean out the drain.

Flash flood warnings had been issued for parts of New York City as thunderstorms rolled through the area Friday, on the unofficial start to summer. Forecasters say Saturday will be cloudy to partly sunny, with scattered showers and thunderstorms, Highs will reach the low 70s.

Sunday improves, with mostly sun but isolated thunderstorms possible and a high of 79.

Memorial Day will be a great beach day, with a high of 85 and plenty of sunshine.

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