Wellsville Asks For Help as Flooding Devastation Worsens

Allegany County Town Seeks State, Federal Aid Amidst Ongoing Catastrophe

WELLSVILLE, N.Y. (WKBW) — The village of Wellsville has proclaimed a state of emergency due to flash flooding which has battered the Allegany County town. Beginning Saturday night and continuing through Sunday, the area was hit with severe thunderstorms bringing torrential rainfall.

Request for Assistance

With floodwaters receding and the extent of the damage becoming apparent, the village is requesting aid from both the state and federal governments. A formal request for a disaster declaration from New York Governor Kathy Hochul has been submitted, according to Allegany County Emergency Management Director Christopher Norton.

Norton further stated that the request for federal assistance will be made through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Ongoing Devastation

Emergency responders were called to numerous areas throughout the night as floodwaters rapidly rose. The village’s fire department performed multiple water rescues, bringing stranded residents to safety.

The Wellsville Police Department reported that several roads were closed due to flooding, including portions of Route 417 and Route 248. Floodwaters also forced the closure of the village's wastewater treatment plant, causing concerns about potential contamination.

Looking Ahead

As the cleanup process begins, the full extent of the damage is still being determined. Early estimates indicate that dozens of homes and businesses have been affected by the flooding.

The village is working to provide assistance to those impacted by the flooding. A shelter has been set up at the Wellsville Elementary School for residents who have been displaced from their homes.