Flooding damages Route 322, inundates South Jersey neighborhoods after heavy storms

MULLICA HILL, N.J. (WPVI) -- Heavy storms brought flooding, damaged infrastructure and disrupted travel across South Jersey, leaving crews and residents dealing with the aftermath.

One of the most visible impacts was along Route 322, also known as Swedesboro Road, in Mullica Hill, where floodwaters damaged part of the roadway. Drone footage showed a large hole along the side of the road after the storm.

Residents said the intense rainfall quickly overwhelmed drainage systems.

According to residents, the road's shoulder began to crumble during the storm, leading to significant traffic backups. Repair crews spent the day working to stabilize and repair the damaged area.

"It was flowing down like a river out of the basin onto 322, and it didn't stop," a resident said.

Alexandra Benas, owner of Cake Boutique, said lane restrictions have made it more difficult for customers to reach her business, though she remains optimistic repairs will be completed quickly.

"There was so much water... couldn't even see the road. People would drive and there'd be a wave," Benas said.

Despite delays, traffic continued moving through the area. Nearby businesses that rely on Route 322 traffic also felt the effects of the storm.

"Thankfully, we're still able to get 322 traffic coming from Pennsylvania to the shore. Want to take advantage of what's left of the summer," said Constantine Benas, owner of Harrison House Diner.

The flooding extended well beyond Route 322. Communities across South Jersey received several inches of rain, and some neighborhoods experienced significant flooding.

Video recorded by students living off campus near Rowan University showed rising water near their residence.

"This door is going to break," a student said in the video.

James Didomenico, a Rowan University sophomore, described the moment floodwaters overwhelmed their house.

"Door completely flies off right toward us. It was crazy. You can see how high the water got," Didomenico said.

The students had moved into the home two days earlier. They said water broke through basement doors and flooded the entire basement.

"We're hoping it's gonna hold, the water keeps rising, we end up grabbing snow shovels to shovel out the water - does nothing," one student said.

After the floodwaters receded, dirt and debris remained throughout the basement.

Images from the height of the flooding showed mattresses and furniture floating in the water. The students said the water rose high enough to reach the top of a toilet and flood a bathtub.

"We basically had a swimming pool in our basement," Didomenico said.

The students said they were able to move their electronics to higher ground and hope the devices were not damaged. They also reported finding a water snake in the basement after the flooding.

Meanwhile, drivers using Route 322 toward the Jersey Shore should expect some delays as repair work continues.