Actions

What is the Great Pumpkin Flood?

The Great Pumpkin Flood of 1786 occurred in eastern Pennsylvania in the Susquehanna River. Heavy rain caused flooding, and home, debris, corn crops and pumpkins were all seen floating down the river. Find Storm Shield elsewhere on the internet: h

By: Jason Meyers

Posted

and last updated

It was 230 years ago today in 1786 when torrential rainfall caused the Susquehanna River in eastern Pennsylvania to flood.

Reports of the time stated the river was anywhere between six and 10 feet higher than normal.

These flood waters washed away the usual debris in addition to homes and unharvested crops like corn and pumpkins.

Large numbers of pumpkins were seen floating down the river, and people of the time dubbed it the 'Great Pumpkin Flood.' What they didn't know at the time was this wouldn't be the last 'Pumpkin Flood.'

Watch the video to learn more.

Follow Storm Shield Meteorologist Jason Meyersvia the Storm Shield appon Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Download the Storm Shield Weather Radio App for your iPhone or Android device and get severe weather alerts wherever you are. Named by Time.com one of the best weather apps for your iPhone.

Actions

What is the Great Pumpkin Flood?

Sign up for the Headlines Newsletter and receive up to date information.

now signed up to receive the Headlines Newsletter.

Plan your weekend with these 7 things to do!