Posted:
Friday, Oct. 21, 2016 (Halifax, NS) – Work will be underway across the region today and tomorrow to clear catch basins in anticipation of heavy rain expected over the next few days.
Environment Canada has issued a heavy rainfall warning for the Halifax area, with up to 50 to 80 mm of rain expected to fall in some areas of the province. Given the amount of rainfall expected, water pooling and localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.
The municipality has assigned crews to clear catch basins of leaves and other debris in heavily-treed areas on the Halifax Peninsula and Dartmouth, as well as known flood-prone areas throughout the municipality. This work will be carried out using a combination of street sweepers and hand-clearing crews and equipment.
This work will help mitigate the potential effects of the coming rainfall on roadways across the municipality, however residents should still be prepared for water to pool on streets in areas where the runoff has nowhere to go, and are advised to drive with care.
In the past, residents have been known to help clear catch basins. The municipality appreciates this assistance and would encourage people to continue this effort if they are willing and able to safely do the work.
If residents spot water pooling on public roadways, or issues with clogged storm drains, they should call 311 to report the specific location so crews can be dispatched on a priority basis.
The municipality thanks residents in advance for their cooperation.
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