Residents Should Prepare For Potential Flooding

After weeks of freezing temperatures and the pounding of back-to-back snowstorms leaving heavy accumulations of snow, the warmer weather predicted for this week may start to make a serious dent in the large piles of snow that line the streets, parking lots and driveways of town. 

Many residents will welcome relative balmier temperatures—today reached as high as 54˚ in town. ,  and across Tolland have suffered from the weight of snow accumulating on rooftops, leading to collapse. The sight of melting snow is cause for many to rejoice.

However, there is a downside to large piles of snow melting so rapidly. “There’s the risk of flooding into basements,” said Operations Manager Clem Langlois Jr., of the Department of Public Works.

He urged residents to try to remove snow banks piled near homes as far away from the foundations. The Town also asks residents to make sure storm drains in the vicinity of their properties are not covered with snow.

“The Town won’t be able to assist residents in the case of flooding,” said Fire Chief John C. Littell. “Get a sump pump now. Make sure you have a good garden hose and some totes.”

In case there is leaking in the basement, a sump pump can be used to remove water that has accumulated. Sump pumps are available at hardware stores like Star True Value Hardware.

“Act now,” said Littell. He urged residents to prepare beforehand in the case of serious flooding. “Then it won’t be so devastating.”