(11/08/06) THORNWOOD - Torrential rains flooded several Westchester roadways Wednesday causing closures and problems for many residents.

For the second time in less than two weeks floods overtook the Saw Mill River Parkway forcing officials to shut it down. After a New York State Department of Transportation initiative raised the parkway by adding six to 12 inches of asphalt in May, residents expressed extra frustration at the effects of the latest downpour.

The Bronx River Parkway flooded as well, necessitating a water rescue at Palmer Road in Yonkers. Emergency responders saved four people whose car became trapped by the water. No injuries were reported.

Several homes, including one on Edgepark Road in Greenburgh, were flooded with over a foot of water. Westchester received about 3 inches of rain in only a few hours. Police say they are unsure when roads like the Saw Mill River Parkway will reopen, but urge all prospective drivers to utilize the utmost caution.