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Hurricane Irene Wreaks Havoc In Darby

DARBY, Pa. (CBS) -- The borough of Darby was one of the hardest hit areas. Many who live along the flood-prone Darby Creek in Delaware County were forced to evacuate as Hurricane Irene began bearing down.

Residents have been through this so many times, it seems like flooding concerns surface almost every time it rains.

"Trash cans floating by. Neighbors running for cover," said Anthony, who is in a power wheelchair.

In his first encounter with the rapidly rising waterway, he got stuck.

"I wised up this time. I used my head. I was able to get my family out and myself as well," he added.

The overflowing Darby Creek closed McDade Boulevard, Chester Pike and Main Street.

According to Police Chief Robert Smythe, there was one rescue, required when a driver went around one of the barricades.

"The car was completely submerged in water. The guy got out of the car, on to the roof of the car. That's where he was clinging when we sent the fire department into rescue him. He's very fortunate that we have excellent volunteers that are willing to go in and do this for people that do dumb things."

Smythe and local residents agreed the flooding after Hurricane Floyd was worse.

William Zebley watched the rising water near his home. He said the borough also was better prepared this time around.

"They actually evacuated these people well before the storm even hit which, you learn from your mistakes."

Reported by Ian Bush, KYW Newsradio; Pat Loeb, KYW Newsradio; Jericka Duncan, CBS 3

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