As Madeira Beach continues to see significant amounts of rainfall each day, city officials are encouraging residents and business owners to monitor and if able, help clear debris from storm drains.
“Its that time of year where you can set your watch by when it will rain, so we need everyone to help us make sure storm drains stay cleared,” said Public Information Officer Curt Preisser.
“Public Works crews are constantly monitoring storm drains, but they can’t be everywhere all the time, so we are asking property owners to help us make sure only rain goes down the drain.”
Even small amounts of palm fronds, grass clippings, loose shell, rocks, and garbage can quickly clog a drain on the surface or below street level. If that debris makes it down into the drain, it can keep a check valve at the outfall of the drain from functioning which will then allow water to come back up through the drain. Materials cleared from a storm drain can be placed in with your regular garbage pickup.
Historically, Madeira Beach receives more than 7-inches of rainfall in August alone. Sudden heavy downpours can overload storm drains resulting in standing water on surface streets. It is recommended that motorists go around these areas when possible or risk their vehicle becoming stranded in the middle of the flooded street. If you must drive through it, go slowly so as not to create a wake that can push into nearby properties.
For more information, contact Curt Preisser, City of Madeira Beach Public Information Officer at 727-391-9951 x299 or cpreisser@madeirabeachfl.gov.