Street Flooding

Streets are an important part of the city’s overall stormwater management system.  The storm sewers located below the street, ditches located along the street and the roadway itself serve to move stormwater to designed locations. 

At times blockages can occur, which can result in flooding conditions that may cause roads to become impassable.  

How Residents Can Help Prevent Roadway Flooding

Keep it Clear

Many stormwater blockages in streets occur due to clogged storm sewer inlets and drains. If there is an inlet in the street adjacent to your home, please keep this drain clear of all obstructions like leaves, grass and debris. Debris at storm sewer inlets also builds up after a storm event, which is a good time to check the inlet to make sure that the system will work well in the next storm. If you see a clogged storm sewer inlet in the City, or cannot clear the debris yourself, please call (630) 420-6095 to report the location.

Never Dump Into a Storm Sewer Inlet

It is important to never dump any debris like landscape waste, garbage or chemicals into a storm sewer inlet. While bulky materials can cause flooding, chemicals and other wastes that are dumped into a storm sewer eventually drain into the river, which threatens fish and wildlife and pollutes the water. If you observe this violation, or to find out how to properly dispose of waste products, please call (630) 420-6095.

Too Deep to Drive?

If during or after a rain event you cannot determine the depth of the water in the street – for your own safety – do not drive down the street. Find an alternate route and immediately report the flooded roadway location to (630) 420-6095.