Posted on: Thursday, January 11, 2018

LYNNFIELD — The town of Lynnfield is asking residents to help prevent flooding by clearing the storm drains around their homes of snow and debris.

In anticipation of heavy rains, warm temperatures and resulting melting of snow and ice today through Saturday, flooding conditions could quickly arise in town. The forecast also calls for a drop in temperatures on Saturday, which could cause any rain-covered surfaces to “flash freeze.” Rain-soaked snowpack may become ice, making it difficult to move after the rain concludes.

While public works crews will be busy for the next few days clearing culverts and attending to problem spots, it is impossible for town workers to clear every storm drain and catch basin in town. Therefore, the Department of Public Works is asking residents to help prevent flooding in their neighborhoods and potential street flooding by clearing away any snow and ice, as well as leaves, twigs, trash and other debris, from storm drains and catch basins around their homes.

Please note: Stormwater drainage systems work best when there is free access to the gutter line. Snowbanks in many neighborhoods are currently four- to six-feet deep from the gutter line and need to be cut back to create a channel that enables the melting snow to enter the system. Take advantage of the warmer temperatures today and tomorrow to chip away at the ice pack near drains and catch basins to get down to the pavement and remove the slush before it re-freezes overnight.

Also ensure that fire hydrants in your neighborhood are accessible as this will save valuable minutes in the event of an emergency. 

Property owners are advised of the following steps that can be taken to protect their property:

• Clear catch basins/drains on and around your property.

• Safely check roof drains, gutters and downspouts to ensure they are not obstructed with snow and ice.

• Ensure basement sump pumps and drain lines are in good working order and unobstructed.

• Complete any remaining snow removal activities (alternate entrances/stairs/decks/patios) prior to the snowpack becoming rain-soaked.

• Use a roof rake to safely remove snowpack and potentially prevent ice dams from forming and subsequent damage from leaks.

Thank you for your cooperation.