Wolf orders National Guard to Lycoming County to assist in flood cleanup

Governor Tom Wolf ordered elements of the Pennsylvania National Guard to Lycoming County Friday in the wake of severe flash flooding.

He said the Guard will assist first responders in dealing with heavy overnight rain which dropped more than six inches of rain across central Pennsylvania, including ares of Lycoming, Bradford, Sullivan, Clinton and Centre counties.

"The commonwealth stands ready to assist counties, municipalities and first responders in responding to the effects of this very serious storm," said Wolf.

"I implore residents of these areas to make the safety of their families and neighbors, especially the elderly, their top priority and to listen to law enforcement and emergency management officials as they work to clear debris, open roads and assess larger damage," he added.

In one area of Lycoming County, Trout Run, as many as 20 people were stranded by flood waters. First responders evacuated them by boat, with no report of injuriess.

Around the region there were widespread road closures as flood waters burst from local creeks and streams.

By mid-day, the waters had begun to recede, and damage assessments were underway, however more rain is anticipated later in the day.