For Immediate Release: August 17, 2021
During the early morning of August 15, Alexandria experienced flash flooding from severe storms. These storms caused widespread flooding, as well as power outages, sanitary backups, road closures, displaced manhole covers and other impacts on city infrastructure. Preliminary rainfall data indicates that between 3 to 5 inches of rain fell in over an hour, with very heavy rainfall rates for 30 minutes. The City of Alexandria encourages everyone to exercise caution, as additional storms are forecast throughout the week.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to report flood-related issues using the Alex311 website or mobile app, or by calling 311 or 703.746.4311. Using Alex311 helps the City to better understand the extent and nature of flooding throughout Alexandria. Overland and property damage flooding should be reported as a “ Flooding Concerns and Inquiries” service request. View additional information about when to use the “Flooding Concerns and Inquiries” Alex311 service category. Displaced manhole covers and other maintenance infrastructure requests should be reported as “ Sewer Infrastructure Issues.” Once a request is submitted, updates are provided via email, including a summary of the details, an expected response date and a number to track progress on the mobile app or website.
If your power goes out, please report it to Dominion Virginia Power by calling 866.DOM.HELP (866.366.4357) or online via dom.com. To report a water main break or for questions about water service, call Virginia American Water at 800.452.6863.
Cleanup activities and light debris removal started on Monday, August 16, with crews inspecting and cleaning culverts and curb inlets of debris that may have clogged during 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.
Flood Action Alexandria was launched in Spring 2021 to help mitigate flooding issues caused by the increased frequency of intense storm events in Alexandria. This comprehensive program expedites infrastructure improvements, including 11 high-priority capital improvement projects, neighborhood spot improvement projects, and the Sanitary Sewer Asset Renewal Program; expands flood early warning systems and signage; implements a Flood Mitigation Pilot Grant Program to provide matching grants to property owners who install flood-proofing measures; increases maintenance capacity; and enhances community outreach and engagement, including monthly newsletters. Since City Council’s approval of a new $197 million 10-year stormwater capacity and spot improvement capital program (with $136 million planned for the next five years) in May, City Council has already expanded that program in the next few years by $5.8 million using newly available American Rescue Plan Act funding.
Flash floods develop quickly during periods of heavy rainfall, sometimes in just a few minutes. Staying informed to prepare for flooding is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your property. Sign up to receive severe weather alerts through the free Alexandria eNews service. Consider having a weather radio on hand to receive all watches, advisories or warning messages from the National Weather Service and subscribing to receive text messages or email alerts from a private weather app.
Visit alexandriava.gov/FloodAction for more flood-related information and to subscribe to the Flood Action Alexandria eNewsletter to receive updates on the City’s flood mitigation efforts.
For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.
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