Residents encouraged to clean on-street catch basins

The City is asking residents to help improve stormwater flow in their neighbourhoods by clearing leaves and debris from on-street catch basins near their homes.

With the weather forecast over the next two days predicting heavy rainfall, City road crews will be working on drainage and keeping catch basins clear. Residents can help by safely clearing leaves and debris from on-street catch basins in their own neighbourhoods. Catch basins can easily be located by looking for a yellow T painted in the centre of the road.

During heavy rainfall, catch basins may drain slowly by design. This controls the amount of water flowing through the stormwater system and reduces the risk of basement flooding. As a result, water may temporarily pool on the road even when the catch basin is clear. This pooling water is not a cause for concern and should drain quickly after the rain has ended.

Residents should exercise caution, avoid heavy traffic areas and drive carefully. ** ** For more information on the City’s stormwater collection system and to learn how to reduce your stormwater impact, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401 ).