A switch to more typical fall weather is renewing calls for residents to do what they can to avoid damage to storm infrastructure. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

STORM SEASON

Shift to rainy weather prompting calls to keep drains and ditches clear

Oct 24, 2022 | 5:22 AM

NANAIMO — A sudden shift into a fall weather pattern is renewing calls for local residents to do what they can to avoid flooding issues.

Despite ongoing work from crews on the ground, an extra-long summer’s worth of debris means extra leaves and pine needles are potentially clogging up downspouts, culverts and storm drains.

City of Nanaimo director of public works John Elliot said their crews are out all summer removing what they can, but homeowners have a part to play too.

“The key messaging would be to make sure your drains around your house are clear, low drains at the bottom of stairways are clear of leaves and debris.”

Residents are asked to keep areas around their property clear and rake away debris if it’s impeding the water from getting into the underground drainage system.

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For larger pools of water, residents can contact the City at 250-758-5222 or email the public works department.

Older properties are likely tied into a storm drain system through a perimeter drain on their property, however some need to take some extra steps.

“On (homes) 90’s era and newer will have a box at the property line which will give access to that. Keeping that accessible and clear and knowing where it is, is really important for homeowners to be aware of.”

Pump trucks travel around the region through the warmer months, doing annual clearing and inspections of the stormwater systems.

Repairs and other maintenance are also conducted when rainfall is at its lowest.

Elliot said the City is responsible for around 13,000 catch basins and over 500 kilometres of underground pipes.

Flooding this year is a real concern after such a prolonged period without rain, as any accumulation now will likely just run over the top of parched, hardened ground.

Elliot added for the most part, the City’s system stands up well to the typical rainfall the mid-Island receives.

Proper funding and support from Council’s over the years has allowed crews to stay on top of changing climates.

“We used to run around, hair on fire in the 90’s, and fortunately we’ve had really good success with Council’s over the year with approving funding for storm drainage infrastructure. Now those peak rain events, the systems actually handle them quite well.”

Higher intensity, shorter storms still cause some minor headaches, according to Elliot.

The atmospheric river event in November 2021 began with flooding on some City streets, about a week before a large sinkhole emerged on Hwy. 19 in Lantzville.

–with files from Ian Holmes

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