June 13, 2011 - Engineering Consultants for the City of Omaha caution individuals and businesses in low lying areas today that they can expect to see sewer backups and surface ponding increase with any significant thunderstorm. Although additional modeling is necessary to provide more detailed projections under a range of possible conditions, the expected impacts from the combination of rainfall and the rising river level could pose a challenge for city officials. The Department of Public Works in conjunction with several engineering firms from the Omaha area are working to mitigate flooding conditions around the commercial areas near 11th and Nicholas.
The City has proactively utilized pumps in vulnerable areas, and acquired additional pumping systems in order to increase its capacity to convey water to the river. "What is a concern now is that a significant rain will prevent us from maintaining our ability to pump water out of low lying areas as rapidly as it is coming into our storm water systems, said Marty Grate, Director of Water Quality Services. "The consultants have produced maps that estimate where water may pool if we were to receive 2.4" of rainfall over a 24 hour period. The actual extent of flooding and sewer backups may be larger or smaller depending the amount and intensity."
With its limited resources, the City has established the following priorities:
- Public Safety
- Protection of public infrastructure
- Protection of private property
The City advises residents and businesses located near the projected inundation areas to prepare themselves as follows:
- Develop a flood communication and evacuation plan
- Take steps to remove possessions from basements and low areas
- Look for opportunities to protect structures from floodwaters
For more suggestions call 2-1-1 or go to www.Ready.gov .
