GoogleTranslate
Release date: 2020-07-25
For current news, please visit alexandriava.gov/News

[Archived] City of Alexandria Advises Residents and Businesses on Cleanup Following Flash Flooding

For Immediate Release: July 24, 2020

Following the severe storms and flash flooding of July 23, the City of Alexandria reminds residents and businesses to exercise caution and be alert for impassable roads, power outages, indoor sewer backups, and other flood-related issues. Last night’s severe storm dropped 2 to 3 inches of rain in 30 minutes, creating a brief, extremely high-intensity event that caused significant flash flooding in many areas, including some not normally impacted by flooding.

Cleanup 

City crews are currently inspecting and cleaning culverts, and clearing curb inlets of debris that may have clogged them during the flooding. Residents removing debris from their property or homes should place it curbside for pickup on their next refuse collection day. Debris collected by a private contractor must be removed by the contractor.

Electricity 

To report a power outage, call Dominion Energy at 866.366.4357. If you encounter an intersection with an inoperable traffic signal, use caution and treat it as a four-way stop.

Never attempt to turn off power at the electric panel if standing water is present. Call your building manager or electric utility to shut off power outside at the meter. Never step into a flooded room if water may be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances or cords. Never touch electric wires, switches or fuses when you are wet or standing in water.

Missing Utility Hole Covers 

Please do not attempt to move utility hole covers. Report problems via Alex311 online or by calling 311 or 703.746.4311.

Sewer Backups 

Cleanup of sewage backups in homes and businesses is the responsibility of the property owner. Property owners are advised to take the following actions after a sewer backup:

Residents who experience backups may benefit from the City's sewer Backflow Preventer Assistance Program for homeowners. 

Standing Water 

If you encounter standing water on roads, trails, or sidewalks, do not drive, walk, bike or otherwise travel through it. Turn around, don't drown!

Stay Informed

Flash floods develop quickly during periods of heavy rainfall, sometimes in just a few minutes. Staying informed and being prepared for flooding are some of the best ways to protect yourself and your property. Sign up for alerts from the City of Alexandria and the National Weather Service for severe weather updates. 

Infrastructure Improvements

While last night’s storm was nearly 30 times more intense than the City’s storm sewer system is designed to handle, the City is currently planning and prioritizing infrastructure improvement projects in the 10-year Capital Improvement Program that will address flooding and drainage issues in less extreme cases. The City identifies flooding and drainage projects through resident complaints, analyses, and field observations.

For additional information, visit alexandriava.gov/Flooding

For media inquiries, contact Sarah Godfrey, Public Information Officer, at sarah.godfrey@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4027.

Note: This news release was edited on September 17, 2020, to correct the phone number for information about filing a claim with the City.

Back to News archive index

© 1995–2022 City of Alexandria, VA and othersPrivacy & LegalFOIA Requests