Fire Department

Monsoon Season Approaches

As the monsoon season approaches, you have most likely noticed Washington City crews performing annual stormwater cleaning projects.  Some community members have asked what exactly is the monsoon season.  In the Southern Utah area heavy cloudbursts typically occur in the months of July, August, and September, these afternoon thunderstorms can be frequent and severe. Although thunderstorms with lightning and flash flooding can and do happen at other times of the year, these months are more likely to have an event.  With that understanding, City crews have been out conducting annual maintenance on the storm drain systems to ensure they are all clear and free of debris. Washington City has completed two large-scale flood detention basins.  The first is located towards the east end of Buena Vista Blvd and the second project is located at North Main Street. Washington City has also stationed supplies and equipment in City facilities located throughout the City for quick deployment. Although Washington City continues to improve and maintain the overall storm drain system, it is also a good time for everyone to do the same with your individual properties.  Please take the time to walk and evaluate your property for potential flooding problems.  Do what you can to help alleviate/mitigate any observed problems.  Knowing the magnitude of rainstorms that have and will come through our area at some time in the future, we again recommend flood insurance for those that are concerned or in vulnerable areas. As we have in the past, the City does have sandbags available to the public at the Public Works office, you can contact them (435)-656-6317 to make arrangements to fill and pick those up, as you desire.   If a flooding event does happen City crews will respond to assist, and sandbagging stations will be established.  If we are able to see or get notified of an approaching event, we will notify the public through all available media options when able.

–Matt Evans, Fire Chief