Tropical Storm Lee

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USGS scientists, engineers, and technicians working along the eastern U.S. coast in response to Hurricane Irene received little rest as remnants of Tropical Storm Lee followed closely behind, dumping up to 20 inches of rain in some areas in the first two weeks of September. USGS crews made stream flow measurements, sampled suspended sediment, and repaired gages in Connecticut, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and other states in the region. States further south were also hit with very heavy precipitation brought on by Tropical Storm Lee, including over 11 inches in Mobile, Alabama.

The USGS deployed additional flood stage sensors along the Susquehanna River near Duncannon, Fort Hunter, New Cumberland, and Middletown, PA, as the river reached peaks not seen since Hurricane Agnes in 1972.

The USGS Flood Event Viewer helps USGS and its partners to track of the storm and its impact on surface water levels. A storm track field is included from NOAA's National Hurricane Center, and real-time USGS streamgage data and Rapid Deployment Gage data are linked through this map-based product.

Storm Surge Sensors are also shown that record fine-resolution storm tide and wave level data. This data became available on the viewer as soon as it was safe to retrieve the sensors and upload the data. In addition, imagery was provided from the National Geodetic Survey.

Following the event, high-water mark (HWM) data was added to the map by field crews soon after collection, including survey data and photos.

USGS Activities in the News:

• Fox News, Sep 9, 2011: Tropical Storm Lee Drenches Northeast, Prompting Evacuations Due to Flooding

• Baltimore Sun, Sep 8, 2011: Conowingo water release may approach 'Agnes' proportions this weekend, dam owner warns

• World Weather Post, Sep 8, 2011: 1-in-100 year rains cause extreme flooding in NY, PA

• Washington Post, Aug.30: USGS discusses the impact of Hurricane Irene