The region was paralyzed by heavy rains; The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning

WORCESTER – The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Worcester County until 3:45 p.m. Friday.

Heavy rain in the afternoon left the area stagnant and a flood watch was also in effect until midnight tonight.

The weather service said the following communities could see flooding: Worcester, Leominster, Fitchburg, Shrewsbury, Gardner, Hudson, Westborough, Grafton, Holden, Webster, Southbridge, Auburn and Northbridge.

Residents are cautioned to avoid low-lying areas near small creeks and not to attempt to drive through flooded roads or footpaths when driving to make a turn. The NWS said vehicles are the most common cause of flooding deaths.

While the weather was expected to hamper events such as this week’s Brimfield Antique Flea Market, treasure hunters were largely unaffected, according to field organizers. “A lot of them embrace it and go under a tent or in a shop,” said Lori Saxon, owner of the Midway Show Field. “We’re open for business, and I think everyone’s doing pretty well.”