ALLENTOWN, Pa. – Lots of rain later this weekend could mean flooding and damaging winds in some areas, but experts say cleaning up branches and leaves around your home can save you lots of trouble.
City crews in Allentown are keeping a close eye on the weather.
“We’re doing everything that we can to mitigate any type of flooding that could potentially occur as a result of all this rain that we’re receiving,” says Mark Shahda, Director of Public Works (DPW) in the city of Allentown.
DPW crews have been busy collecting leaves to keep them from clogging storm drains, and they’re asking residents to do the same.
“We just ask that the residents please keep an eye on it and every once and a while go out there with a broom and a shovel and just keep the inlet top clear,” says Shahda.
With lots of rain predicted, experts say there’s some things you should keep an eye on and clean up around your home.
“One of the biggest things I would consider, especially if you’ve had any newly planted trees, something that’s only been in the ground this year – maybe even just got planted last year – is to make sure it’s properly staked,” says Joseph Veshinfsky, Master Gardener Coordinator, Penn State Extension.
In addition, it’s a good idea to remove any dead branches on trees.
“If you have a dead branch over your house, that’s going to be a concern, because you know the wind could certainly knock that down,” says Veshinfsky.
Veshinfsky says before the storm hits, take a look around your yard, and think about picking those last vegetables from your garden.
“If you have flower pots, equipment, containers that could be blowing around, you might wanna move those to a safe location,” Veshinfsky adds.