The Detroit Water & Sewerage Department (DWSD), in coordination with other city departments, is responding today to the severe flash flooding that is occurring across Metropolitan Detroit. DWSD along with crews from the departments of Public Works and General Services, will be in neighborhoods throughout the day clearing catch basins and removing debris to reduce street flooding. The City has reassigned crews normally assigned to non-critical duties to assist with this effort.
Flooding on the freeways, including on the M-10 Lodge Freeway underneath Cobo Center, is the responsibility of the Michigan Department of Transportation.
Street flooding results from intense rains or flash floods that strain the system’s capacity. Clogged catch basins from leaves can also result in blocked basins that encourage flooding of streets. As the rain volume decreases and basins are cleared, the standing water will recede. Residents and businesses are encouraged to call 313-267-7401 to report street flooding, gushing water and sewage backups.
Today’s flash flooding is a reminder that residents and businesses can minimize street flooding by ensuring leaves, twigs, grass clippings and other debris are cleared from the street and in front of their property. Left remaining on the street, these items will clog the catch basins that cause flooding. DWSD encourages residents and businesses to use rakes, shovels and brooms to remove the debris and place in a proper refuse bag. DWSD has an educational video on catch basins at: https://youtu.be/jbZdRZrR3Io.
Report water and sewer emergency issues in Detroit by calling 313-267-7401, or use the “Improve Detroit” SeeClickFix mobile app for Apple and Android devices. DWSD billing, services and other questions may be directed to 313-267-8000. DWSD customers who experience sewage backup are encouraged to file a property damage claim at www.detroitmi.gov/dwsd within 45 days of discovering the incident.
EDITORS/REPORTERS: If you want to film or take photos of city workers addressing clogged catch basins in the neighborhoods, please contact DWSD Public Affairs listed above.
Linda A. Clark, 313-236-0282, clarkli@detroitmi.gov
Bryan Peckinpaugh, 313-410-2954, peckinpaughb@detroitmi.gov