Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) Director Rudolph S. Chow, P.E., today reminded citizens that a Flood Watch is in effect from 2:00 p.m. today, Friday, July 28, through the afternoon on Saturday, July 29.

This system will have the potential to bring 3 inches of rain to the region, though local rainfall could be higher. Heavy rainfall may result in rapid rises in streams and creeks. This could quickly result in flooding, especially in low lying and poor drainage areas. Please take necessary precautions.

Trash and loose debris can also end up entering and clogging storm drains, leading to flooding. Animal waste, grease, oils, and other pollutants will also wash into the storm drains if not cleaned up before any heavy rain fall.  

Clearing yard waste, leaves and trash from sidewalks, alleys, gutters, and storm drain inlets will keep this material out of the storm drains and out of nearby streams.  If storm drains in your area appear to be blocked, clogged or filled with debris, please call 311 so DPW crews can address them.

For more information on how to prepare for bad weather, visit the Mayor's Office of Emergency Management's website at www.baltimorecity.gov.