Facts on Flooding

Flood Safety

Obey evacuation orders from officials. Evacuation orders are issued for imminent storm surge flooding, not the wind.
Know your evacuation zone, route and shelter locations. Find your evacuation zone by visiting Palm Beach County.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. Electrical current can travel through water.
Do not drive through flooded roadways. Roads may not be distinguishable from canals or ponds.
Do not walk through flowing waters.
Be prepared for hurricane season. Visit the Department of Homeland Security for preparation information.

Flood Warning System

The City of Boca Raton and Palm Beach County depend on the National Weather Service (NWS) for impending flooding notification. The NWS will issue flood advisories prior to expected heavy rainfall and possible flooding. Watch The Weather Channel and have extra batteries on hand for a weather radio.

The City utilizes the Alert Boca Emergency Notification system, which allows the City to notify residents via telephone of an impending emergency. To sign up, visit Hurricane Information or call 561-393-7700.

During an emergency residents can also obtain information at:
- Boca Raton Radio Station AM 1650
- Boca Raton TV Ch. 20 (Comcast), Ch. 99 (ATT),
  Ch. 395 (Hotwire)
- City’s Citizen Information Center (CIC) during storm events at 561-982-4900

Benefits of Natural Floodplains

Natural areas of the City typically collect and retain stormwater runoff during rainfall events. These natural areas also enhance the water quality of stormwater runoff by filtering through the ground.

Sand dunes on the beach are nature’s protection against inland flooding from waves and high tides accompanying major storms. Everyone should protect these natural areas and keep them clean! To learn more, go to the Palm Beach County Public Library catalog, and search for “Protecting Floodplain Resources: A Guidebook for Communities.”

Stormwater Management

Water from rain is managed through a system of pipes and drainage canals. Constant water flows through canals, especially during heavy storms, is essential to flood damage protection in the City.

Only stormwater down the storm drains.
Oils, lawn clippings, cigarette butts, and other substances should never be put down a storm drain.
Keep garbage and debris away from storm drains.

TO REPORT ILLEGAL DUMPING OR DEBRIS ACCUMULATION

It is unlawful to dump or throw anything into ditches or canals. Even grass clippings and branches can accumulate and plug channels. To report dumping or debris accumulation in canals or ditches, please call 561-393-7941.