As the Delaware River remains flooded from the heavy rains reported earlier this week, an unoccupied canoe prompted a water rescue team activation in the Sullivan County Town of Lumberland. Several Orange County fire department units were called to assist.
The Town of Lumberland is on Route 97 between Port Jervis and Monticello. Sullivan County 911 received a phone call advising of an unoccupied canoe floating down the river. Lumberland and Highland Lakes Fire Departments immediately responded with boats.
The incident commander requested units from Orange County to assemble and await further instructions. The Port Jervis, Sparrowbush, and Hugenot Fire Departments assembled in their quarters, ready to respond with their boats if needed.
Firefighters learned that the canoe was swept from shore due to flooding in the area. Several canoes that were tied off along the river, popular for excursions, are now underwater due to the flooding.
