Heavy Rains Flood Central New York Basements, Roads, and Campgrounds

Residents share dramatic videos and photos as rising waters wreak havoc across the region.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:53am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding across Central New York, leaving basements, roads, and campgrounds underwater. Residents have shared dramatic videos and photos of the flooding, including a gazebo and deck floating down the Erie Canal and campsites becoming partially submerged. Multiple roads have been closed due to the high water levels, and officials are urging residents to avoid flooded areas and take precautions to protect their property.

Why it matters

The April flooding in Central New York is a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events driven by climate change. These types of floods can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, and pose a serious threat to public safety. The flooding also highlights the importance of disaster preparedness and the need for communities to invest in resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of future flooding.

The details

The flooding has been particularly severe along Fish Creek in Taberg, where videos show the river running fast and high, flooding parts of the Tagasoke campground. At the West Canada Creek Campground, the site has been partially submerged, though thankfully the opening day is still a month away, giving the water time to recede. One driver in Depew had a real-life lesson in flood safety when their car was carried across the road by the floodwaters, though thankfully everyone was safe.

  • The flooding began on April 1st, 2026.
  • The opening day for the West Canada Creek Campground is still a month away.

The players

CJ Gutterco

A resident who captured video of a gazebo and deck floating down the Erie Canal towards Oneida Lake in Sylvan Beach.

Joseph Wagner

A resident who shared video of the swollen Fish Creek in Taberg.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is somebody's whole deck and pavilion floating down the canal.”

— CJ Gutterco

What’s next

Officials are continuing to monitor the situation and provide updates on road closures and flood conditions. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow all safety instructions.

The takeaway

The April flooding in Central New York is a stark reminder of the increasing threat of extreme weather events driven by climate change. While the region has experienced flooding before, the severity and frequency of these events is likely to continue increasing, underscoring the need for communities to invest in resilient infrastructure and disaster preparedness measures to protect lives and property.