Monday, May 27, 2013

Joint Press Release – Poweshiek County Emergency Management Office and the City of Grinnell

As a result of unprecedented rain events that occurred and continue during the Memorial Day weekend in the area, many homes are experiencing flooding or severe water problems. Unfortunately, the National Weather Service is predicting significant rain over much of Iowa the next four days and more flooding is likely.

Grinnell’s sanitary sewer system has been inundated with rain water and as a result many homes are experiencing water in basements. This will persist until the sanitary sewer system is able to drain the rain water from collection pipes. All of the sanitary sewer lift stations are functioning. The waste water treatment plant is also fully functional and operating at capacity. There are many residents experiencing flooding related to ground or surface water entering their homes.

The city of Grinnell is working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to bypass the sanitary sewer flows where necessary and appropriate. Bypassing poses no risk to the environment or our drinking water supply as the waste water has been highly diluted by the rain water. The city of Grinnell’s drinking water is safe to drink and at very low risk during this event.

This information may be useful to those experiencing water problems:

• Please take no unnecessary risks. Use caution when working in water around electrical devices. Seek professional advice if you have any concerns about starting appliances, furnaces, water heaters, or similar devices that have been potentially damaged by water.
• In many cases the water in basements will drain from the home once the sanitary sewer system is able to purge much of the rain water. In some cases, being patient may be the best strategy.
• The city of Grinnell’s water is safe to drink and has not been impacted. Please use as little water as possible as this will help reduce the amount of water entering the sanitary sewer system.
• Grinnell residents may place water damaged items at the curb for pick up at no cost. Appliances may be placed at the curb also but a charge will apply for pick up. Please have all items at the curb no later than 7:00 a.m. Wednesday May 29th.
• There is information available at the Grinnell Public Safety Building in regard to repairing your flood damaged home and at www.grinnellfd.com.

The most important thing for everyone to keep in the forefront is safety. If you are unsure how to address a problem you are facing, ask for help from a plumber, friend, neighbor, family member, or contact the Poweshiek County Dispatch Center at 641 623 5679.