Storm water can build up if storm drains are not cleared

BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) – While you are driving on the road, you may notice storm drains. These drains play a crucial role in flooding prevention.

When we are faced with a lot of rain in a short amount of time, this can lead to sudden flooding.

Storm drains are on the sides of many streets to help prevent flooding by giving storm water a place to drain instead of building up.

59News traveled to Beckley to seek out professional input on the importance of not clogging storm drains.

Luke Stevens, Environmental Manager with Beckley Sanitary Board, said storm drains are essential parts of many roadways, but debris can build up over time and this can cause issues.

“As they collect the storm water, they can also collect anything that the storm water picks up. That’s litter, leaves, or debris. All of that can end up washing down and getting on top of those grates that are on the storm drains. That’s generally where we see those drains getting clogged up,” said Stevens.

Some of the material that clogs storm drains can also have a negative impact on the environment.

Stevens said grass clippings from mowing can affect water quality.

“Keeping those grass clippings out of the storm drains, off the grates, and out of the waterways. For one, they can cause clogs and cause those drains to backup and not flow properly. They can also add a lot of nitrogen, fertilizer, and nutrients that we don’t want for our creeks and streams. They’re not good for the animals that use those,” said Stevens to 59News.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.