For years urban flooding has become an increasingly relevant problem that needs to be addressed. Besides climate change, one of the biggest reasons behind urban flooding is the presence of impervious surfaces. Non-porous concrete, paving, asphalt, brick, and stone are all classified as impervious surfaces.
The ever-expanding presence of large areas made up of non-porous materials inundates our neighborhood's stormwater systems. Essentially these downpours cannot escape into the earth, and with stormwater drainage systems often at capacity during heavy floods, the water remains on the surface.
Besides stormwater issues, there are other longstanding effects associated with urban flooding caused by impervious surfaces. Firstly, when urban flooding occurs, and water sits atop these surfaces, infrastructure is damaged. Additionally, water moves across the landscape, carrying many pollutants and biological contaminants from cities into waterways. This is a devastating problem as wildlife and fish are poisoned and exposed to harmful substances. Humans are also affected by the pollutants and dangers of stagnating floodwaters.
Fairways Springs has suffered two massive flooding events. The first in 1998 required the re-directing of the Anclote River and the second in 2012. Some of you might also recall Hurricane Irma in 2017 that flooded the entrance to our neighborhood and limited the types of vehicles that could come and go freely.
Please give this a thought as you consider building patios and extending driveways. Also, don't forget that most properties in Fairway Springs have drainage easements between them and their neighbor, so please ensure you get your County Permit before applying to the HOA.
I'm bringing this up now because the 2022 Hurricane Season is due to commence on the 1st of June. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) are predicting an above average season with 14 to 21 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes and three to six major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale). These numbers are greater than the 30-year averages (1991-2020) of 14 named storms, seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.
Here's a link to read to make sure you are prepared for the worst. https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/preparing-for-hurricane-season/ and here's a copy you can download and print out.pdf