Public Service Message: Heavy Rain and Wind

KALAMAZOO, MI – The Road Commission of Kalamazoo County (RCKC) offers the following update regarding the recent and ongoing weather event. With Severe weather, the following instances are possible:

Water over the Road/Storm Drainage: It is common to find standing water in the roadway with large amounts of rainfall. Please do not drive into high water. If possible, turn around. Storm drains are often unable to manage the quantity of rain that falls during heavy rains and/or storms. In some areas this may only be for a brief time, in other areas pending weather may take a few days. A blocked storm drain is a common cause of street and/or yard flooding. If you have a catch basin in front of, or near, your home, please make sure the opening remains free of leaves, sticks, rocks and/or other debris.

Washout: It is also common to find road shoulder washout areas with large amounts of rainfall. Shoulder areas are eroded by water, especially as it flows to the natural low areas.
High winds: High winds have the potential to cause damaging impacts, such as downed trees and power lines. Consider relocating or securing loose yard items, such as decorations.

Trees: During rain, windy conditions, and with leaves, trees/branches become heavy. In cases of fallen trees on roadways, RCKC teams will move the fallen trees outside of the road right-of-way to the adjacent property, clearing the traveled portion of the roads for the safety of the public. Relocated trees from the roadway will be left for the property owner’s use and/or disposal. A pink flag will be left near the relocated tree informing property owners to contact the RCKC within 15 days for tree removal options.

Trees and Power Lines: Please be aware of sagging or broken wires in trees as it can still be "live" with a deadly amount of electricity. Do NOT approach. For all of our safety, these cannot be removed by the RCKC Team. We must wait for utility company assistance for an all clear. Please report compromised power lines to 911 or to the appropriate utility company.

General service requests for the above issues or questions for the RCKC can be sent through our contact us page on our website at www.kalamazoocountyroads.com, or at 269-381-3171. Road-related emergencies should be reported to 911 after 4:00 pm Monday through Friday and weekends.