Town officials urge owners of wet ponds & stormwater wetlands to open drain valves ahead of Tropical Storm Debby

Town officials are closely monitoring the threat posed by Tropical Storm Debby, which has the potential to bring up to 10 inches of rain and flooding to central North Carolina.

Stormwater Management officials are encouraging the owners of Stormwater Control Measures, particularly wet ponds and stormwater wetlands, to open the drain valve (see attached photo) located within the concrete or aluminum riser box, if possible. The drain valve should remain open for approximately 24 hours, or until the water elevation has decreased by approximately one foot.

This action will ensure that these devices have sufficient storage capacity to capture large volumes of stormwater runoff expected to be produced by Tropical Storm Debby, thereby protecting downstream streams and infrastructure.

For more information or assistance opening your drain valve, contact Stormwater Specialist Kevin Kirsch at [email protected] or 984-500-7650.