The City of Richmond is preparing for potential flooding due to forecasted high-intensity rain events. The city urges residents and businesses to take precautionary measures to minimize impacts.
City agencies are taking proactive steps to mitigate potential effects. The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has deployed crews to inspect and clear storm drains in known trouble spots. Staff remain on-call, ready to respond quickly to blocked inlets or drainage issues. Additional signage for flood-prone streets is prepared for deployment if needed. Residents and businesses are encouraged to help prevent flooding by keeping storm drains clear of debris, as blocked inlets can lead to localized flooding, driving hazards, and property damage even during minor rain events.
The Department of Public Works (DPW) is coordinating signage deployment in areas with known flood risk. While the Magnolia Street flood gate is currently inoperable, signage will alert drivers. Bainbridge Street flood gates remain operational. Emergency Services Operations (ESO) teams, along with Urban Forestry, Traffic, and Maintenance crews, are on call through the night.
The Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities (PRCF) will monitor levels in the James River. James River Park System staff have protocols activated due to recent rains and ask residents to adhere to posted signage at river entry points.
City departments and partners receive regular weather updates and continue coordinated response efforts to safeguard public infrastructure and community wellbeing. Flooding often occurs during severe rainstorms due to several contributing factors listed on the City’s Stormwater Management page at www.rva.gov/public-utilities/stormwater-management under “Floodplain Management.” Long-term objectives include reducing risks from extreme precipitation as outlined in the RVAgreen 2050 plan available at www.rvagreen2050.com/rvagreen-2050-plan.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by visiting www.rva.gov or following @RVAGov on Facebook and Instagram. “The City of Richmond thanks the community for its cooperation and continued vigilance during this weather event.”
