ADA COUNTY- As the start of spring brings heavy rain to the area, the Ada County Highway District reminds residents to do their part to prevent localized flooding by keeping storm drains clear.
While the District has equipment at the ready to respond to flooding, ACHD asks residents to help prevent flooding issues before they begin and report any localized flooding in their neighborhood.
Storm drains help funnel stormwater runoff into the water system. Leaves, grass and other debris can clog storm drains and gutters, leading to ponding on sidewalks, driveways and in the roadways.
Residents can identify their nearest storm drain by checking the map on ACHD's website. If a storm drain isn't clear, residents should use a rake to clear leaves and debris away from the storm drain. This allows water to easily run down the drain. Residents should not try to remove the grates.
When temperatures dip below freezing at night, ice may be lingering in gutters, preventing water flow. If able, residents should break up and remove the ice to allow rain and snowmelt to flow freely.
Neighbors are also reminded not to shovel leaves, snow or other debris into the street. These best practices, in combination with ACHD's street sweeping program, will keep neighborhoods beautiful, protect local waterways and increase safety for all roadway users.
To report localized flooding, residents can contact ACHD during normal business hours at achdidaho.org/tellus or by calling (208) 387-6100. If issues arise after 4:30pm or on weekends, residents can call non-emergency dispatch at (208) 377-6790.