How to Keep a Storm Drain From Overflowing

Storm drains line the street to help drain rainfall and melting snow. These drains can get covered with fallen leaves, twigs, trash and other debris. This buildup can cause the drain to get clogged. During a particularly bad rainstorm, the storm drains can overflow, and this overflow can potentially lead to flooding. With a little time and effort you can keep the drains clear of debris and the risk of overflows low.

Shovel
Broom
Rake
Gardening gloves
Baking soda
Vinegar

Instructions

- 1
  Remove any large debris from the storm drain. Use a shovel, if necessary.
- 2
  Sweep away leaves and twigs with a broom. Or use a rake.
- 3
  Remove any smaller items stuck in the grate, but wear gloves while doing so. Once the leaves and other debris have been removed, the water flow should be restored to the drain and the storm drain should no longer overflow.
- 4
  Pour a cup of baking soda down the storm drain. Pour a cup of vinegar down the drain, following the baking soda. The solution will mix together and work through any clogs in the drain. After 15 to 20 minutes, pour a pot of boiling water down the storm drain to flush the solution through. Do not use commercial clog-removing solutions on the storm drains, as they often drain to lakes, creaks and other bodies of water. The chemicals contained in these products can be hazardous to these environments.

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