I periodically receive a Water Resources newsletter from the City of Olympia in my inbox. I find the items in it interesting and of value. With the start of fall weather, the recent one had a good reminder about keeping storm drains free of leaves and other debris to prevent street flooding.
In case you haven’t seen it, here’s what it said:
Before it Rains, Rake a Drain
With the onset of rain, chilly weather and wind, autumn leaves begin to fall on our yards and our streets. Storm drains can easily be overwhelmed with leaves, fir needles and sediment-laden stormwater runoff. When debris like this builds up on storm drain grates, rainwater has trouble passing through to the pipes below.
Raking your neighborhood drain helps prevent flooding and unsafe driving conditions. Here’s what you can do to help reduce flooding in your neighborhood:
Rake drains clogged with leaves and debris.
Keep leaves from your yard off the street.
Avoid blowing and raking leaves onto the street.
Stay safe! Don’t stand in the road, watch for vehicles and wear reflective clothing.
If you are unable to clear drains on your own and notice a problem, please contact Public Works Dispatch at 360.753.8333.
South Capitol Neighborhood Association 