Tips for Managing Stormwater During Hurricane Season

Hurricane season in Flagler County brings more than just strong winds—it often sends heavy rainfall that tests your home’s resilience to stormwater and flooding. Proper planning and maintenance can help protect your property and community from water damage and drainage issues.

1. Understand and Maintain Local Drainage Systems

In Palm Coast, more than 1,200 miles of swales  play an important role in collecting stormwater before it reaches canals and aquifers.

Keep these swales clear by:

• Mowing regularly

• Avoiding yard waste or debris dumping

• Not blocking drainage paths like driveway inlets or ditch grates

2. Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Clogged gutters can back up water causing damage to roofs, siding, and foundations.

During hurricane season:

• Clear leaves, branches, and debris from gutters

• Ensure downspouts direct water at least 10 feet away from your home

• Turn off irrigation systems during heavy storms to prevent overflow

3. Landscape with Storm Resilience in Mind

Florida-friendly landscaping offers both protection and aesthetic value.

Here are a few practices that can help:

• Install rain gardens or French drains to absorb excess water and reduce runoff 

• Plant wind-resistant and flood-tolerant species, and prune trees to reduce wind damage

4. Create Runoff Solutions That Work

Low-impact development (LID) features like roof runoff systems and rain gardens can absorb up to 90% of rainwater from surfaces, reducing surface runoff and flooding risks

5. Maintain Stormwater Infrastructure

Flagler County has implemented vegetated swales that guide runoff safely toward retention areas, filtering water naturally within open drainage channels .

As a homeowner:

• Keep drainage channels free of debris

• Avoid parking on swales to protect soil structure

• Report any obstructions or illegal dumping to public works

6. Plan with Purpose During Hurricane Threats

Ahead of and during storms:

• Remove loose items like patio furniture and lawn ornaments

• Never stack yard debris in storm drains or swales—this can heavily impact drainage during storms

7. Know Your Flood Risk & Get Prepared

Stay informed about your flood zone and drainage vulnerabilities.

Keep an emergency kit with water, batteries, flashlights, and supplies on hand. If flooding is likely, consider sandbags or other mitigating tools to keep water away from your doorways

Why This Matters for Flagler Homeowners

Effective stormwater management safeguards your property and shelters the wider community. Flagler County is  working to adapt its outdated stormwater systems, but homeowners play a vital role in minimizing flooding and runoff risks through these simple practices

Quick Homeowner Checklist:

• Keep gutters and downspouts clean & directed away from your foundation

• Regularly mow and maintain swales—keep them debris-free

• Incorporate rain gardens or French drains for better water absorption

• Trim trees and landscape with storm and flood-safe plant choices

• Secure property and remove debris before storms

• Stay informed on your flood zone and have emergency plans in place

Other tips and helpful information can be found at the Flagler County Emergency Mangement website. Click on this link: Emergency Preparedness Guide