While we watch for potential local impacts from Hurricane Isaias, the Town of Carrboro’s Public Works and Stormwater Management teams are making sure that culverts and storm drains are clear of debris to reduce flooding.
Are You Prepared?
Check for news and weather updates at weather.gov/rah/. Governor Roy Cooper and Emergency Management leaders will give an update on the state’s hurricane preparations at 4 p.m. Friday, available via live stream at ncdps.gov To be prepared for an emergency situation, assemble an emergency supply kit. readync.org/
Just as crews check for issues on public property, residents can help ensure the drainage systems in their yards and neighborhoods continue functioning properly during and after a storm.
Preparing Before a Storm
Some of the most common stormwater issues are due to blockages in inlets, pipes, and swales. Most of these blockages can be avoided by performing a quick walk around your yard to check the following:
- Remove and secure any loose vegetative debris, such as grass clippings, branches, logs, etc. Do not store vegetative debris in swales, road gutter, or in your stream buffer.
- Remove and secure any loose trash cans, toys, flower pots, outdoor furniture, and decorative yard items. These items can be carried by high water or wind into the drainage system and block the flow of water.
- Check your driveway culvert, stream buffers, and neighborhood stormwater control measures for any potential issues.
Reporting Flooding
Responding to Heavy Rains in July
An intense thunderstorm moved through southern Orange County during the late afternoon on Wednesday, July 29. In addition to lightning strikes, downed trees, and power outages, the storm delivered a relatively short duration but high intensity rainfall.
Town of Carrboro staff have received reports of heavy flows in storm drains and related concerns. At least one small creek, Dry Gulch, came out of its banks and flooded some yards and areas in the Quarterpath Trace and Bolin Forest neighborhoods. A report of blue colored creek water in Jones Creek and a tributary (Buckhorn Branch) in northern Carrboro was also reported and has been investigated. Occasionally we find a stream that is an unnatural crystal blue, or blue green color. Learn more here: townofcarrboro.org/2411/What-is-THAT-in-the-stream
Staff have been following up with residents in these neighborhoods and elsewhere, and will continue to do so.
Ongoing Stormwater Utility Projects and Initiatives
To learn more about the Town’s current Stormwater program’s efforts, access a recent report at https://bit.ly/3hVTDKA, visit townofcarrboro.org/287/Stormwater or email stormwater@townofcarrboro.org
