Last week’s bout of wet weather kept the Town of Pelham’s Public Works department busier than usual.
Crews spent much of the week combating some of the issues that arise with heavy rainfall: flooding, sinkholes, edge damage, and debris blocking drainage grates, ditches, and culverts.
With overland flow exceptionally high and the previously well-saturated ground, some roads experienced localized flooding. Town staff responded to flooded areas throughout Pelham posting warning signs, closing roads, and clearing blocked draining points wherever possible; response options in the more severely flooded areas are limited.
Public Works staff performed cleanup during breaks in the weather, utilizing the Town’s fleet equipment and stockpiling raw materials such as granular stone and rubble to fill washouts.
Many areas affected by the rain have required regrading, at times a simple solution, and others more complicated.
“Every effort is made to provide a path for road drainage and overland flow to prevent recurrence,” said Andrea Clemencio, director of public works. “Sometimes this just isn’t possible without more complex construction.”
While the forecast suggests a break from the rainy weather, staff continues to inspect and clear storm water drainage grates, ditches, drainage inlets, culverts, road debris, and problem areas, in preparation for any additional rainfall.
Current road closures?
There are no new road closures to report
What to do to report flooding?
To report flooding please call the Public Works Department 905-892-2607 ext. 332. If you are in danger or in need of immediate help or rescue call 911.
What can you do to help prevent flooding?
Drainage on private property is the sole responsibility of the property owner. To reduce the impact of flooding it is important to maintain ditches or swales that convey water across your land. Keep drainage courses clear of fallen branches or debris. Maintain proper drainage away from your home. Extend roof leaders and sump pump discharges to a safe distance from buildings. Remove roof leaders from your weeping tile if they are connected as roof drainage often overwhelm the tile designed to keep your basement dry. Remember to not direct water onto neighboring properties if possible and to help stop land erosion maintain vegetation on slopes and drainage courses.
To help the Town reduce the impacts of flooding please maintain your roadside ditch or drain (catchbasin) by removing debris including lost recyclables, newspapers and fallen leaves and branches. These items can quickly plug or block culverts and drains causing damage to roadways, driveways, and private property.
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