The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is always ready for a major storm event and we are ready for Hurricane Ian. The SFWMD is closely monitoring Hurricane Ian and continues to prepare the District’s water management system for heavy rainfall that is already starting to impact the region.
Did you know there are many precautions that residents can take to help reduce the risk of flooding and allow excess rainwater to drain in their communities?
South Florida has an interconnected water management system, and flood control in South Florida is a shared responsibility between the SFWMD, county and city governments, local drainage districts, HOAs, and residents. You can help keep water flowing through our interconnected drainage system by taking the following steps around your home:
- Check ditches and swales in your neighborhood to ensure they are free of debris.
- Secure/store objects that can easily blow away.
- Secure boats and other vessels.
- Don’t trim your trees or create yard debris until after this storm has passed.
- Check community retention ponds and lakes for debris and any obstructions to pipes and contact the appropriate authority for removal. This could be your HOA, city, county, or local drainage district.
Residents should avoid entering standing or moving water and listen closely to alerts and information from their County's Emergency Operations Center. Never go outside during severe storm conditions. Residents are reminded that some standing water is normal and expected after significant rainfall. Water in streets, swales, yards, and low-lying areas is expected.
If you experience an increasing amount of water that is impacting your home, report this flooding to your local drainage district. To find out which entity is responsible for the local drainage system where you live, visit SFWMD.gov/StormUpdate.