Providence business deemed total loss after flash flood Monday night

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Monday night’s heavy rain led to flooding all across Rhode Island. Branch Avenue in Providence saw some of the worst, leaving tons of damage.

For one business owner, that means the total loss of their business.

“It is unspeakable, there are really no words to put in it. It is a great loss and significant amount of damage,” explained Trish Lyons, the area manager of Citi Trends.

The scene of the parking lot, less than 24 hours later, remained a disaster. Mud-filled pavement, shattered-windows, walls torn down, and businesses completely flooded.

“What we know so far is that there was a flooding. I guess around this market it happens often, with torrential downpours and severe thunderstorms. I don’t think the community has seen anything like this before and to this magnitude. We sustained a lot of loss and damage,” Lyons added.

Mayor Brett Smiley addressed the city and shared his concerns Tuesday morning.

“This year’s storms have put Providence’s storm water system at capacity,” Mayor Smiley said. “Providence police assisted over 30 civilians to higher ground.”

Despite the intense work needed in order to reopen, business owners at the Branch Avenue shopping plaza said they’re optimistic.

“Hopefully sooner rather than later we will get back on our feet and open our doors and serve our community right here in Providence,” Lyons concluded.

With more rain expected Wednesday, Mayor Smiley reminded residents of Providence to call 311 for city services if your storm water system overflows.