CLEVELAND — We're in for several days of potentially heavy rain, and flooding could become an issue

What You Need To Know

  • Heavy rain and potential flooding could occur over the next few days

  • Prevent flooding around your home by clearing drains and gutters

  • Driving in floodwater can be dangerous 

But there are some things you can do now to minimize the risk to your home and keep you safe on the roads.

Most of the state is bracing for heavy rain and potential flooding over the next few days. Matt Scharver is the Director of Water Shed Programs with the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, and he said they are prepared.

“Our stormwater inspection and maintenance group have already been out ahead of this latest forecast of rain to make sure that our stream areas are free of any blockages,” Scharver said.

The biggest threat is overflowing drains.

“First receive the water and then also they can't keep up with conveying the water through the pipe network.” Scharver said. “So that's when we have backups, either surface flooding in the roadways or on your private properties.”

The runoff from drains flows into local rivers and streams. Flooding can impact road safety and damage your home.

AAA says there are some things you can do ahead of storms to stay safe. 

Know if you are in a flood zone. Create an emergency plan and know evacuation routes. Do not walk or drive through floodwaters. Even a few inches can be dangerous. Drive only if needed.  

“If you do experience flooding, reach out to your municipal service department, and let them know what you've experienced, that they may provide assistance,” Scharver said.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says you can prevent flooding around your home by clearing drains and gutters. Also consider adding a battery backup to your sump pump, if you have one in your basement. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and consider creating password protected digital copies.

“Important thing is to make sure that anything that’s’ available to allow water to be received and drained, is free and open to receive that drainage ahead of storm events," Scharver said.

If you need to be on the roads or highways this weekend and you get stuck in flooding, you can call 911 if it's an emergency, AAA if you have their service, or your car insurance company may be able to help.

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