Rain Coming, Citizens Can Help Prevent Flooding

A forecast of heavy rain by the National Weather Service could increase the chance of flooding in some Deerfield neighborhoods and the City Public Works Department is working to minimize potential damage.

Citizens can do something about it as well by clearing snow covering curb drains so water can flow freely into them, according to Deerfield Assistant Director of Public Works and Engineering Bob Phillips.

“If the drain is plugged the water will wind up in the street,” Phillips said. “If there is something (a citizen) can’t clear, call public works and we’ll take care of it.”

With more than 21 inches of snow on the ground from the two recent storms, according to Public Works Director Barbara Little, there was a lot to clear. “We plow curb to curb so a lot of them (curb drains) should be open,” Phillips said.

Public works is already looking at the situation to take preventive measures Phillips encourages citizens to call if they see something which needs attention.

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