Public works continues storm drain cleaning and maintenance

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The city of Weslaco continuously works to maintain its drainage system.

Public works crews conduct inspections of storm lines before, during, and after storms. After heavy rainfall on Wednesday, August 31, crews used the city's vacuum and jetting system to ensure storm lines are clear of debris.

The National Weather Service in Brownsville on Wednesday issued a flood advisory, solely for the Weslaco area, due to heavy rainfall. 

A report from the National Weather Service in Brownsville indicated that portions of Weslaco received half an inch of rainfall within just 10 minutes, from 3:52 p.m. until 4:02 p.m. on Wednesday, which contributed to water ponding on roadways. 

In total, areas of Weslaco, including near Knapp Medical Center and Weslaco East High School, receive about 3.5 inches of rain in the span of two hours. 

Meteorologists study the weather, climate and our environment. These experts have reported that one inch of rain falling on just one acre of ground equals about 27,154 gallons and weighs about 113 tons. 

Other conditions that affect the amount of rainfall on roadways include: 

  • The rate of rainfall
  • Soil conditions
  • Amount of rainfall over a period of time
  • Density of vegetation
A lot of rain in a short period tends to run off the land into streams rather than soak into the ground, according to the National Weather Service.

To flow into drainage ditches throughout our region, water on hard surfaces must flow onto the street then into drainage inlets located along concrete curbs. From there, the rainwater flows underground into the drainage system comprised of drainage ditches, regional detention facilities, and ponds. The water then travels miles to the federal floodway located east of Weslaco.

To ensure the upkeep of our drainage system, our public works and parks departments regularly and consistently maintain, clean, and inspect drainage inlets and ditches throughout the city of Weslaco.