Severe Flooding Hits Manheim Borough, Emergency Crews Respond

Manheim Borough, PA — Severe flooding hit the region following overnight storms on July 1, 2025, prompting emergency crews to respond to numerous calls for assistance.

Heavy rainfall, which began Monday evening, led to over 6 inches of water accumulation in some areas. First responders were alerted at around 6:38 p.m., with numerous calls coming in overnight regarding stranded motorists and flooded homes.

“We were busy all night,” said a spokesperson for Lancaster County-Wide Communications. “Most emergency calls were from Manheim Borough, where vehicles were stuck on flooded roads.”

Residents witnessed Chiques Creek overflow with water, reaching the tops of nearby bridges and carrying debris downstream. Vehicles parked on South Main Street had mud marks indicating water levels that rose rapidly overnight.

According to Millersville University Weather Information Center Director Kyle Elliott, the area was particularly affected, receiving 5 to 6 inches of rain. “Manheim Borough was in the bullseye of the storm,” he explained.

Emergency crews undertook multiple water rescues, including using inflatable rafts, known as “banana boats,” to assist stranded individuals. In East Hempfield Township, firefighters rescued a person trapped in a vehicle on McGovernville Road.

Reports of power outages peaked at about 1,200 customers on Monday night. As of noon on Tuesday, more than half of the outages were resolved, although many roads remained closed due to flooding.

In Lititz, significant flooding was also reported, with a bridge along Evans Road washed away during the storm. “We are used to storms like this, but it’s the worst I’ve seen in a while,” said one local resident.

By Tuesday evening, more storms were forecasted, with the National Weather Service issuing a flood watch expected to last until 11 p.m. Residents are urged to avoid flooded areas and stay indoors during the storms, which may bring damaging winds and further rainfall.