Ybor’s flooding issues are far from over. Despite the latest stormwater improvement project, many areas in Ybor still remain prone to severe flooding during heavy storms. Over the past few weeks, certain areas have seen up to 2 feet (and more!) of flood water. Here are some season tips and reminders:

• Avoid driving down 17th St. during heavy storms. The water is so deep your car may stall and flood! Do NOT drive into puddles, they may be deeper than you expect.

• Keep alleys, streets, sidewalks, and balconies free of debris. Plastic bags, cardboard, and plywood are exceptionally damaging. These items can float to the storm water inlets and clog them, causing additional flooding.

• Do not place any object (i.e. trash cans) on top of a storm drain. Drains will not do their job if they are blocked.

• Secure all construction sites. Any unsecured signs (i.e., hanging chain signs, banners, etc.) temporary signs stuck in the ground and hanging globe lights should be removed and brought indoors.

• Use foam sealant on windows and doorways, instead of sandbags. Foam sealant is much more effective at stopping water intrusion than sandbags, and can be reapplied easily. It is available at hardware stores.

In the event of a severe storm, City parking garages will remain open whether they are staffed or not. To report flooding problems, please call the Stormwater Department’s 24 hour Emergency Hotline: (813) 622-1901.

Just in case you are not convinced of the severity of our flooding problems, here is a video captured by David Bailey near the intersection of 5th and 16th St.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, August 1st, 2007 at 9:07 pm and is filed under General News.