Hightstown Borough Under Water

Update: Residents may now use the water as long as it is boiled first, according to Hightstown Borough Council President Lawrence Quattrone.

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Hightstown Borough is in a state of emergency and under a water advisory, according to Fire Chief Larry Van Kirk.

Peddie Lake crested overnight and there is water in the streets by Borough Hall, through the police station and firehouse, from Stockton Street to Bank Street, Van Kirk said. There was around two feet of water inside the firehouse in downtown Hightstown around 6 a.m. Sunday.

Residents should not use the water, even after boiling it, and should use bottled water or other beverages, Van Kirk said. The Public Works Department is trying to get the water plant operating, but it is unknown how long it could take due to heavy rains for the next few hours.

Van Kirk said residents should be aware that there will be at least another three to three-and-a-half hours of rain, and the storm is not over.

“Unless you have to be evacuated…stay in your house, wait till it subsides,” Van Kirk said.

A shelter has been set up at Hightstown High School for those who need it, Hightstown Borough Council President Lawrence Quattrone said. However, Quattrone said if you have an emergency and need to leave your home, call 9-1-1 and someone will be sent to help you evacuate. He advises people not to leave their homes unless they are receiving help by emergency crews.

“The smartest thing they [residents] can do is stay in their homes,” Quattrone said.