PARAMUS, NJ — Bergen County officials are reviewing a privately organized half marathon in Paramus after runners were sent through serious flooding during Sunday’s race, with water reportedly reaching waist level in some areas.
Videos from the event showed participants continuing through deep standing and moving water as heavy rain affected parts of Bergen County. The conditions quickly raised questions about whether the race should have been delayed, rerouted or stopped altogether.
The event was organized by Racefaster, a private race company that holds running events throughout the region. Bergen County said the organizer has been placed on probation with the county’s permitting office while officials review what happened and whether proper procedures were followed.
County officials are also examining the decision-making process surrounding the race, including how organizers responded to deteriorating weather and flooding conditions.
The incident has drawn attention because race organizers are generally expected to monitor weather, road conditions and participant safety throughout an event. Severe flooding can create risks including falls, hidden road hazards, contaminated water and rapidly changing currents.
The flooding was part of a broader round of heavy rain that affected sections of North Jersey over the weekend, creating localized flash-flood conditions and difficult travel in some communities.
For Bergen County, the central question now is whether the event should have continued once conditions became dangerous — and whether additional permitting or safety requirements are needed for future races.
Sources: NBC New York | Bergen County officials | Racefaster
By NJ RADAR Team