When severe weather approaches South Florida, our staff closely monitor the storm and prepare the water management system for excessive rainfall. Canals are lowered to allow the flood control system to operate at full capacity, and our professional staff coordinate with local governments to strongly encourage all local drainage districts to prepare their systems for excess stormwater.
During and 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. Go to SFWMD.gov/FloodControl. Scroll to bottom of page and type your address in the Local Contact Viewer to find the contact information.
Did you know you can help reduce the risk of flooding in your community? Here are a few things you can do:
- Check ditches and swales in your neighborhood to ensure they are free of debris.
- Learn who you should report flooding to at SFWMD.gov/FloodControl.
- Secure/store objects that can easily blow away.
- 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 (could be your HOA, city, county, or local drainage district).
- Check out this infographic for a close-up look at the interconnected drainage system and how flood control in South Florida is a shared responsibility between the District, county and city governments, local drainage districts, homeowner associations and residents.
Over 500 staff at the water management district will work around the clock to prepare for the impacts of a storm, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant during hurricane season. Always have your hurricane plan and supplies ready. Learn more at FloridaDisaster.org.