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Local Businesses Struggle as Severe Storms Continue to Impact Region

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 23:18 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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The tri-state area is reeling from a series of intense storms that have brought torrential rain, flash flooding, and widespread power outages, leaving local businesses struggling to stay afloat and residents facing significant hardship. The relentless weather pattern, which began last week with the initial storm and has continued with subsequent systems, has caused extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and commercial properties across New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut.

The immediate aftermath of each storm saw widespread road closures due to flooding, making it difficult for employees to reach work and customers to access businesses. Many roads remain closed or severely impacted even as the rain subsides, hindering supply chains and deliveries. The ongoing power outages, affecting hundreds of thousands across the region, are compounding these problems, forcing many businesses to temporarily close their doors or operate at significantly reduced capacity.

"It's been devastating," said Maria Rodriguez, owner of a small bakery in Paterson, New Jersey, as quoted by Local 12 News. "We lost all our inventory with the initial flood and now we’re dealing with power outages that are making it impossible to bake anything. We don't know how much longer we can stay open." Her story is echoed across numerous sectors – restaurants, retail stores, auto repair shops, and even essential services like pharmacies – all facing similar challenges.

The economic impact extends beyond the immediate losses of inventory and lost sales. Many businesses are struggling with increased insurance premiums following repeated claims related to storm damage. The cost of repairs and cleanup is also proving prohibitive for some, particularly smaller enterprises operating on tight margins. According to a statement from the New Jersey Business Owners Association (NJBOA), many members are facing difficult decisions about their future viability.

The storms have also highlighted existing vulnerabilities in infrastructure. Reports indicate that aging drainage systems were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of rainfall, contributing significantly to the flooding. The NJBOA is calling for increased investment in infrastructure upgrades to mitigate the impact of future weather events. Similar calls are being made by business groups in New York and Connecticut.

Beyond the immediate economic concerns, residents are facing significant hardship. Thousands remain without power, forcing them to rely on generators or seek shelter elsewhere. Food insecurity is also a growing concern as grocery stores struggle with supply chain disruptions and limited operating hours. Local charities and community organizations are working tirelessly to provide assistance, but resources are stretched thin.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has declared a state of emergency for New Jersey and New York, making federal aid available to affected individuals and businesses. The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to help businesses recover from losses. However, navigating the application process can be challenging, particularly for those already overwhelmed by the situation.

Local officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed weather warnings as more rain is forecast in the coming days. They also emphasize the importance of community support during this difficult time. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs has established a hotline (1-800-628-2033) for residents seeking assistance with disaster recovery resources.

The long road to recovery will require a concerted effort from government agencies, businesses, and individuals alike. While the immediate focus is on providing relief and addressing urgent needs, the need for proactive measures – including infrastructure improvements, enhanced emergency preparedness plans, and financial support for vulnerable communities – is clear. The recent storms serve as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events and the critical importance of building resilience in the face of climate change.

The Local 12 News report also included interviews with residents struggling to cope with the aftermath of the flooding, highlighting the emotional toll of the disaster. One resident described losing nearly all her possessions due to floodwaters entering her home. Another expressed frustration over the slow pace of power restoration and the lack of clear communication from utility companies. The article emphasized that while the rain has stopped for now, the challenges facing the region are far from over. For more information and resources:

• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Disaster Recovery Hotline: 1-800-628-2033
• Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance: [ https://www.sba.gov/disaster-assistance ]
• NJBOA Website: [ https://njbusinessowners.org/ ]