Heavy, persistent rain over the past several days has saturated the ground. Paired with seasonal high King Tides, excessive water has been directed away from homes and into swales, on low-lying streets and in yards. These conditions are observed in neighborhoods and communities all over South Florida. In Hollywood, 6 to 8 inches of rain has fallen since last Monday. City staff is aware of high water conditions and has been working throughout this latest rain event to help mitigate flooding concerns.
Here is a summary of some of our efforts:
- Public Utilities crews have been deployed, working 24-hour shifts to keep auxiliary pumps free and clear of sand and debris.
- Additional pumps have been deployed to assist with reducing elevated water levels.
- Staff is monitoring the storm sewer systems, which are running at full capacity, to ensure they remain clear.
- Staff is also monitoring permanent pumping stations to ensure they are working to drain flood waters.
- Public Works crews have deployed barricades to block access to areas that have flooded.
- Hollywood Police Department has been deployed to help assess hazardous conditions.
- Public Works crews continue with efforts to raise low-lying areas of unprotected shoreline by constructing earthen berms
Long Term Solutions:
- On October 21, 2020, the City Commission awarded the design contract for the Tidal Flooding Mitigation and Shoreline Protection Projects, Phase I to Cummins Cederberg, Inc. by passing Resolution No R-2020-275.
- The Community Redevelopment Agency is working on next steps for A1A redesign and mitigation
- Public Utilities is currently crafting a Stormwater Master Plan to address long-term flooding solutions
Additional rainfall is in the forecast, which will continue to negatively impact flood mitigation efforts. The City urges the public to adhere to the following flood safety tips:
- Avoid flooded areas.
- Do not drive or walk through flooded streets.
- Do not drive around barricades, they are there for your protection.
- Do not allow children to play in flood water.
The next King Tides are expected November 13 – 18, 2020.
