Heavy rain is in the forecast in Coquitlam over the next 24 hours and, while City crews will be out checking on drainage intakes and critical catch basins, we are asking residents to take steps to reduce the risk of flooding and other impacts.
COQUITLAM, B.C., Nov. 2, 2020 – Heavy rain is in the forecast in Coquitlam over the next 24 hours and, while City crews will be out checking on drainage intakes and critical catch basins, we are asking residents to take steps to reduce the risk of flooding and other impacts.
Avoid Flooding
Flooding can occur when runoff from extremely heavy rain exceeds the capacity of the City’s drainage system. Flooding can also happen when drain pipes become blocked by tree roots or debris.
Residents can help prevent flooding by:
- Cleaning foundation drains and sumps: These drains collect water from the house and property, and direct it to the City storm sewer. The pipes can become blocked by leaves, dirt, roots or debris and should be flushed out periodically, or in some cases replaced.
- Clearing gutters and catch basins: Keep the catch basins near your property and gutters on buildings clear of leaves, debris and snow. Rake up leaves in the fall to prevent them from plugging drains. Visit www.coquitlam.ca/catchbasinsmap to find a link to a Catch Basins Map.
- Clearing ditches and culverts: If you have an open ditch along your property, check to see that it is clear. Common items such as toys, balls, and other debris can often get lodged in the culverts and cause water to back up.
- Repairing broken or damaged pipes: Broken or damaged pipes can cause blockages and flooding of your home. Check that your home drainage system is working properly.
- Do not blow leaves from private property onto City streets: Doing so can greatly increase flooding risk by blocking catch basins.
Report emergency City drainage problems to Coquitlam’s 24-hour Engineering and Public Works line at 604-927-3500.
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Media contact:
Brad Lofgren
Director, Public Works
City of Coquitlam
604-927-6236
blofgren@coquitlam.ca