Mild winter doesn’t alter City’s annual flood preparations
Eagle Mountain has experienced an unusually mild winter this season, with relatively lower snowfall than in recent years.
Despite this winter’s reduced snow accumulation totals, Eagle Mountain City remains mindful of its preparations prior to the spring runoff.
The City typically organizes annual volunteer events where residents can help fill sandbags, which are then distributed to those who may need them should flooding incidents occur.
Additionally, residents can request sandbags at any time from the City’s Stormwater department, ensuring they have the resources necessary to protect their homes. The City also recently expanded its Stormwater department personnel and invested in new equipment to enhance its ability to respond to potential flooding throughout the year.
Stormwater Supervisor Larry Diamond advises residents to take simple but crucial steps to safeguard their property.
“I would make sure that your downspouts are clean and directed away from your house,” Diamond said. “When I get calls, it’s typically because their downspouts aren’t clear and they aren’t directed away from window wells.”
He also urges residents to be mindful of where their runoff flows to prevent water from affecting neighboring properties.
The City has taken steps over the past year to upgrade its stormwater infrastructure to handle increased water flow. Recent projects include the installation of 400 linear feet of HPDE pipe, new manholes and an updated stormwater pond in the Valley View area.
Additionally, the City replaced 250 linear feet of RCP pipe to better accommodate excess water, tripling the area’s flood capacity. These improvements target areas that have experienced flooding in the past, providing a greater level of protection for residents.
While this year’s spring flooding risks are unknown, Diamond emphasizes that Eagle Mountain prepares for more than just winter-related runoff.
“We’re still going to host events where community members can fill sandbags and help us do that,” he said. “We prepare not just for snowmelt, but we’re also preparing for August rains.”
Local schools and community groups are already getting involved in the City’s flood preparedness efforts. Ranches Academy and several elementary schools regularly organize sandbagging community service projects.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any stormwater concerns to the City. If they notice plugged drains, isolated street flooding or any other potential issues, they can call the City’s emergency hotline, or report the issue through the City mobile app.
“We have plenty of full sandbags, but we’re always looking for more,” Diamond said, emphasizing the importance of preparedness even in a low-snowfall year.
Eagle Mountain remains committed to ensuring the safety of its residents through infrastructure improvements, community engagement and proactive flood management strategies.