The City experienced significant flooding during the early morning hours of Saturday, June 26th. It has been reported that the City received more than 4” of rainfall associated with this event and additional rainfall is forecasted over the weekend. Unlike significant flooding that occurred a decade ago, the Kerby Road Pump Station and City Infrastructure remained fully operational. However, it is apparent that the Fox Creek Enclosure, which is located downstream and transmits sewage to the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) for treatment, filled to capacity and could not handle additional incoming storm water.
In addition to basement flooding, there was significant street flooding with submerged vehicles. Areas impacted are primarily in the Inland District between Ridge Road and Mack Ave.
As the inland district is a combined storm and sanitary system, care should be taken in cleaning and sanitizing. Below are recommendations from Wayne County Health Department:
WHEN CLEANING FLOODED BASEMENTS AND STRUCTURES:
- When inside a flooded basement or building, wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles and boots.
- Hose down the inside of the basement/structure to remove health hazards from possible flood water mud. Shovel out as much mud as possible. Quickly remove the water you use during this cleaning.
- Clean and dry out basement or structure thoroughly within 24 to 48 hours after flooding to help prevent the growth of mold.
- Help the drying process by using fans, air conditioning units and dehumidifiers.
- If flood water did not get behind the structure's walls, you can reduce the chances of mold and mildew formation in basements and homes by wiping down all flood water-affected surfaces. Use a solution of one cup of liquid household bleach to a gallon of water.
- Throw away any food that has come in contact with flood waters and dented or damaged canned goods that may have become contaminated.
- Replace any drywall and insulation that has been soaked by flood waters.
- Remove and discard carpeting, rugs, drywall, mattresses, furniture and other items that cannot be washed and disinfected if it is believed that they came in contact with flood water mixed with raw sewage.
- When cleaning, never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach or ammonia or other cleaning products can produce dangerous, toxic fumes causing serious injury or even death. Keep windows and doors open to provide fresh air for ventilation during the cleaning process.
- Never turn power on or off or use an electrical tool or appliance while standing in water.
- Do not enter the basement or other area where floodwaters have reached any electrical outlets or panels.
- Keep children and pets out of work area. Do not eat, drink, chew gum, or smoke while cleaning.
- Wash cleaning clothes in hot water and detergent separately from family laundry.
- In the weeks and months following clean-up, watch for the growth of mold, which can cause illness. Mold appears as spots that can be many different colors and gives off a musty odor. Mold should be removed immediately with a mixture of one cup bleach (8 oz.) to every gallon of water.
- After clean-up, make sure electrical outlets are safe to use before restoring electrical power.
In order to track the homes impacted by basement flooding, the City is requesting that you provide your home address and contact information using the online form located at www.grossepointefarms.org/basementflooding.
Residents may put out rubbish prior to their scheduled collection day. Additional routes are being scheduled.
