Fall Leaf Debris and Storm Drain Clogs: What to

Fall brings cooler temperatures—and a steady stream of leaves that can quickly overwhelm storm drain systems during the next downpour. When leaf debris collects in grates and channels, it restricts water flow, increases the chance of localized flooding, and can lead to additional problems such as standing water and roadway hazards.

While storm drains are designed to move rainfall away from streets and properties, they are not built to handle large volumes of organic material. Even moderate storms can expose weak points when drainage paths are already partially blocked.