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Clearing out storm drains to prevent flooding

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Posted at 9:28 AM, Feb 22, 2021
and last updated 2021-02-22 09:28:45-05

INDIANAPOLIS — This is a reminder that rain and snow don't mix, so clearing blocked storm drains is important to prevent flooding.

It may mean clearing the drain repeatedly as snow falls, plows pass, or ice builds up. Do not block storm drains with snow shoveled from driveways, either. If a storm drain is blocked use a shovel to clear the top of the grate, break up and remove any built ice.

Here are some more tips:

  • Never try to remove a storm drain lid or attempt to clear a drain located in a busy street.
  • Remove snow and ice within a 3-foot perimeter of fire hydrants.
  • Shovel a pathway from the hydrant to the street.
  • Try to remove any ice that may have formed on the hydrant itself.

If you can’t clear your drains and they become clogged localized flooding could become an issue in your neighborhood.