While the record-breaking snowpack is helpful for drought conditions, Provo City is actively preparing for potential flooding as a precautionary measure. Our Flood Preparation Committee began meeting weekly in February.
“Since the last major flood 40 years ago, Provo has been improving its storm water system as the city continues to grow and develop. We are currently planning and coordinating with internal and external agencies to prepare for any type of flood emergency, including identifying areas with the biggest flood risk and developing routes to divert water to protect the residents and homes.” - David Decker, Provo City Public Works Director
Our crews are working on flood prevention by cleaning our storm drains and clearing away vegetation or runoff materials that could clog the system. Crews will also clear the Provo River of debris impeding water flow. Residents can help by keeping gutters and storm drains clear of any yard waste and garbage.
We have also secured sandbags to add to our existing inventory. Should flooding occur, the city will notify residents of sand bag pick-up locations. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the State Street flooding, with many comparing the snowpack conditions then and now.
“We are monitoring areas with excessive snowpack to determine water volume and better understand potential flood risks should the warming weather create concerns,” said Decker.
Provo City is prepared for potential flooding. Our expert crews are doing the preparation work necessary to safeguard potential flood areas while being properly supplied with sandbags and equipment to quickly respond.
As we monitor and prepare for potential floods, we ask that residents help by keeping an eye out for flooding. If you notice any blocked storm drains, please contact Provo 311 or the Public Works Storm
Water Division at 801-852-6700. If the likelihood of flooding increases, we will release additional information to help residents know how to prepare and volunteer to help in case of an emergency.
Part of Provo’s water management approach is to take advantage of wet years similar to this one. Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) projects allow the city to store excess water in our aquifers, helping replenish declining groundwater levels.
1984 Provo Flooding Facts:
The sandbag channel in Slate Canyon had over 90,000 sandbags, over 2,625 tons of sand, two vehicular bridges and eight pedestrian bridges.
It took 1,455 volunteers a total of over 3,770 hours to construct the Slate Canyon channel.
Additionally, over 3,280 volunteers have contributed a total of 5,190 hours in filling and moving other sandbags to-date