BETHLEHEM, Pa. (WFMZ) — Public works crews throughout the Lehigh Valley are checking leaf-covered storm drains ahead of the coming storm.
Heavy rain and strong winds are on the way. Mix in falling leaves and you get clogged storm drains and potential flooding.
“We do have crews who are going to go around the city during the storm throughout the day and look for any trouble areas,” said Michael Alkhal, Bethlehem’s Director of Public Works.
Alkhal tells us the moderate drought our region is experiencing is working in our favor for this storm.
“A lot of the initial rain will be absorbed as opposed to runoff,” Alkhal explained.
While leaves are falling, many are still up in the trees.
“That’s where most of the concerns would be, if leaves are carried by the rainwater to the drains and clogged the drains,” Alkhal stated.
If you see a leaf covered storm drain, use a rake, broom or shovel to remove the piles on top, then dispose of them in leaf collection bags.