Store's merchandise damaged after flood

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WPRI) - People living in Fall River have dealt with flash flooding all summer long, including three in the past month alone.

The torrential downpours happened within a matter of hours Wednesday and caused serious problems for the city.

• Photos: Storms cause street flooding

There were reports of broken sewer pipes and businesses flooding. On Thursday, public works crews remained busy clearing storm drains.

“We got like six trucks out right now all over the city. We have vacuum trucks clearing the drains out,” said Joe Moni of Fall River Wastewater Treatment Facilities.

President Avenue was hit especially hard. That’s the location of J&B Hockey and Sporting Goods, where customers waiting for back to school uniforms were temporarily trapped by the floods.

Those inside the building described their experience as chaotic.

“Water just came from everywhere. It came from the ceiling, it came through the doors, we had people trapped inside. It was nuts,” said Brandon Stuku of J&B Hockey and Sporting Goods.

“All of a sudden people started screaming that the water was coming in the doors. One lady panicked and opened the door and the floodgates opened. And it’s been chaos ever since,” added Bruce Morrow.

The owner of the store said dozens of boxes full of clothing are now ruined.

“Minimum, I’m looking at thousands,” said John Norfolk, the owner J&B Hockey and Sporting Goods.

According to Fall River’s mayor, no one was hurt in Wednesday’s flash flooding.

• Related: Fall River mayor discusses floodings' impact

For those that were affected, they can seek assistance at Government Center. The Red Cross will also be handing out cleaning supplies for residents.