Crews in rafts rescue flood victims

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) - Nearly five inches of rain is causing widespread flooding throughout Rhode Island. One of the hardest hit areas appears to be Fletcher Ave. in Cranston, right on the Johnston line.

The neighborhood, accustomed to flooding from the nearby Pocasset River, experienced a bit more drama than normal Friday morning. The water was so high, emergency crews had to rescue people by raft. (click here to see extended video of rescue)

Several cars were also stranded in the high water.

In East Providence, firefighters were kept busy most of the morning checking on residents and responding to car accidents and downed power lines.

The Runnins River overflowed its banks, flooding many nearby streets and homes.

"It's frustrating. I've got three sump pumps going. And, where am I going to pump it? Not in my yard, it goes into my neighbor's yard," said Fernando Antonio, who lives on Marsh St in East Providence.

Now, neighbors are just hoping the streets drain before the temperatures drop Friday night.