City prepares for potential flooding

Heavy rain is expected to hit the area this evening that could lead to severe flooding, the National Weather Service said. 

The weather service issued a flash flood watch and coastal flood advisory for southern Nassau County, from 9 p.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Wednesday, saying that heavy showers could drop 1 to 2 inches of rain per hour during the heaviest periods, while widespread rainfall amounts of 1½ to 3 inches — and more than 4 inches locally — are possible.

“In anticipation of this weather event, public works crews have been proactive in monitoring storm drains throughout the city,” the city said in a statement on its Facebook page. “Our Vactor trucks — including the new truck just put into service last week — have been on the road making sure storm drains are clear as part of the city's storm preparation efforts. Public works crews will continue to work this evening, in conjunction with the Long Beach Police Department, to ensure that our residents are protected from significant flooding.”

The anticipated downpour comes on the heels of two days of heavy rain last month that flooded parts of the city, especially the North Park area. At the July 15 City Council meeting, City Manager Jack Schnirman said that the city has a day-to-day maintenance plan when it comes cleaning storm drains before and after heavy rainfall.

The Herald also reported last month that Jim LaCarrubba, the commissioner of the Department of Public Works, said the city’s sewer maintenance workers clear storm drains on a regular basis and have taken a proactive approach. Still, he said that the city’s aging infrastructure is in need of a major overhaul, and said officials want to install pump stations to force out floodwater, and retention areas to hold water during high-tide and heavy rain events, among other efforts.