Monroe County is under a flood watch until noon Thursday, according to the National Weather Service. This means flooding may happen in areas with poor drainage and in urban areas.
Monroe County could get up to seven inches of rain this week, with storms bringing heavy rainfall and a chance for thunder, expected to continue through Thursday. Streams and creeks are “running high,” according to the National Weather Service, and could flood.
Justin Baker, the deputy director of Monroe County Emergency Management, wrote in an email that residents who live near bodies of water should monitor the water’s level and take action if needed.
It is important to be cautious when driving on low-lying roads, Baker wrote, and residents should avoid driving on roads known for flooding. If a driver does encounter a flooded road, it is best to turn around. Residents can check this Facebook group for resident-reported road closures. MCEM will continue to post on its Facebook as the weather persists and changes develop.
Drains and sewers may become backed up during prolonged or heavy rainfall, City of Bloomington Utilities communication manager Daniel Frank said in an email. He encouraged residents to take proactive steps to reduce flooding risks.
Residents should check nearby storm drains to ensure they are clear of debris, because blockages can contribute to localized flooding during rainfall, Frank wrote. He encouraged community members who are able to sign up to help monitor and maintain a storm drain near their home or business through the city’s Adopt-a-Drain program.
Frank wrote that if a citizen notices a significant blockage in a drain, they can either call the City of Bloomington Utilities or submit a report.
A sewer backup has a risk of pushing raw sewage and wastewater back up pipes and into residential homes. If a resident is experiencing a sewer backup, they should call the City of Bloomington Utilities immediately so crews can investigate the backup, Frank wrote. Residents can call the City of Bloomington Utilities at 812-339-1444 and can submit reports online through the city’s UReport system.
