With more rain coming, Carson City Public Works addresses measures to prevent flooding
Wednesday will provide a short, blue-sky break from the rainy storms moving through the region this week, but the rains will return Thursday and into the weekend and with them, the increase risk of flooding.
Some flooding was already noted on Tuesday throughout Carson City as rains continued. Heavy rains are expected Friday through the weekend, prompting a Flood Watch for the region. Carson City Public Works spoke with Carson Now on how to prevent flooding — and why it matters.
There are a number of reasons why flooding can be a danger including damage to vehicles, roadways, homes and more.
“From a Transportation perspective, water on the roadway is a safety concern which can result in hydroplaning and loss of traction for vehicles,” Transportation Manager Chris Martinovich said. “Pooled and standing water can also damage the roadway pavement and base layers leading to quicker deterioration and failure of the pavement.”
While roads are designed to allow water to run off into the storm drain system, flooding can occur when those drains are clogged with debris — especially during the fall and winter months.
“Drainage issues begin long before a rain event occurs,” Operations Manager Rick Cooley said. “The constant build-up of debris, especially leaves, will create an immediate issue once the smallest rain or snow event occurs. Even nuisance water in some areas of town can create a back-up. With so many drainage inlets in town, it is impossible for city crews to clear each inlet on a weekly basis.”
That’s where Carson City citizens come in.
“Our citizens are the first line of defense is keeping drainages clear,” Cooley said. “They are in a position to see potential drainage issues around their home and neighborhood on a daily basis, and when noticed, typically only take a few minutes to correct.”
Martinovich agreed, stating that working together to clear storm drains protects the city as a whole.
“Clearing inlets and allowing the water to flow off the roads is an important component of roadway safety, maintenance, and preservation in which all residents can play a part,” Martinovich said.
Clearing debris on a regular basis will ensure that whether the storm event is large or small, the drainage will function properly at the start of the event, and throughout the event.
“If drainage inlets start off a storm event already plugged, it means city resources are being taxed for issues that could have easily been prevented before the storm event, and takes away resources from more serious issues that cannot be resolved by a citizen,” Cooley said. “Once a local drainage system becomes overwhelmed or plugged, city crews must react and jump around from point to point across the city instead of planning for and dealing with larger issues in a timely manner before they become damaging.”
Here are some ways that you can help prevent flooding in your neighborhood:
- Inspect the top of the drain grate regularly and remove debris like sticks, leaves, and trash that could cause a back up
- Keep the drain area free from snow and ice
- If there is an issue with a storm drain that is too complex to tackle on your own, call Public Works at (775) 887-2355