SFWMD Preparing Regional Flood Control System
for Forecasted Rainfall from Tropical Wave
District lowering canals, coordinating with local drainage districts to ensure flood protection for 8.7 million residents as storm approaches
West Palm Beach, FL -
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is preparing the regional flood control system to handle heavy local rainfall from a tropical disturbance which is expected to affect South Florida Thursday night, Friday, and part of Saturday.
"We are always working year round to keep our regional flood control system prepared as we continue to watch developing conditions so we can spring into action when needed to protect communities and the environment," said SFWMD Interim Assistant Executive Director and Chief Engineer John Mitnik. "Not just with this approaching tropical wave, but also with the heart of hurricane season approaching, now is a good time for residents to do their part by ensuring their storm drains and swales are clear of debris and also to familiarize themselves with the local drainage district that provides local drainage for their property."
The disturbance is forecast to bring rainfall amounts of 2-4 inches to some areas of the District with localized rains of 6 inches during a 36-48 hour period.
SFWMD has begun drawing down canals throughout its regional flood
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Click on the image to see a larger version of the infographic explaining drainage and flood protection is South Florida. |
control system to ensure capacity to take stormwater from local drainage districts and municipalities to prevent flooding. The District also held a call with local drainage districts and municipalities to coordinate flood control efforts as the tropical wave approaches.
Flood control in South Florida is a shared responsibility between the District, which operates the regional flood control system, and local drainage districts, municipalities and homeowners associations that operate the primary and secondary drainage systems that move flood waters away from homes and neighborhoods. Residents throughout South Florida can find what local agency to contact about flooding concerns based on their address by visiting the District's Flood Control website at
sfwmd.gov/floodcontrol.
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