News Summary
Following unprecedented rainfall in August, Savannah is increasing maintenance efforts for its stormwater and sewer systems. The city recorded nearly double the average precipitation, leading to significant impacts on local utility services. In response, crews are mobilized for mitigation, with over 16 stormwater improvement projects currently active, while Large Vacuum trucks are deployed to address drainage concerns. The city’s projections indicate a potential rise in sewer spills due to continued heavy rains, highlighting the need for infrastructure upgrades in the face of changing weather patterns.
Savannah, GA – The City of Savannah is ramping up maintenance of its stormwater and sewer systems following a record-breaking rainfall in August. The severe weather, which resulted in nearly double the area’s average monthly precipitation, has significantly impacted local utility services, prompting the city to take extensive measures to manage the aftermath.
Savannah recorded a whopping 11.79 inches of rain in August, nearly twice the 30-year average of 6.79 inches. Some neighborhoods within the city received over 20 inches of precipitation during the month, shattering rainfall records and stressing the stormwater drainage system. Downtown Savannah, the Islands, and the Southside were especially hard-hit, experiencing nearly triple their normal rainfall amounts. As a result, groundwater levels have surged to unprecedented heights, exacerbating the impact on the already challenged drainage infrastructure.
In response to the flooding, the City has mobilized crews to enhance mitigation efforts and is currently advancing over 16 active stormwater improvement projects. Additional projects are in the pipeline, reflecting a commitment to not only cope with the immediate challenges posed by heavy rains but also to prepare the infrastructure for future weather events. Stormwater Management staff have particularly increased the cleaning of ditches and canals to facilitate proper drainage from streets into the river.
In a bid to address flooding issues effectively, the city has deployed Large Vacuum (VAC) trucks throughout Savannah. These trucks are essential for clearing stormwater inlets and responding to reports from residents about drainage concerns. Meanwhile, Sewer Conveyance staff are tackling problems related to Inflow and Infiltration (I&I). Inflow refers to rainwater entering the sewer system, while infiltration pertains to groundwater seeping into the sewer system. The heavy rainfall has complicated these issues and has led to recent sanitary sewer spills, contributing to infrastructure failures.
The city’s projections for sewage spills in 2025 indicate that they could be about 2% above the 20-year average of 13 spills annually. So far this year, Savannah has reported 13 minor sewage spills (defined as spills under 10,000 gallons) and two major spills (those exceeding 10,000 gallons). With approximately 79,000 sewer customers and over 80,000 metered water customers, Savannah is the largest utility provider in the region. Its underground network comprises around 960 miles of sanitary sewer mains and force mains, 416 miles of stormwater conduits, 146 miles of ditches and canals, and more than 1,000 miles of water mains. Some components of this utility system date back centuries, showcasing the need for ongoing maintenance and upgrades.
Historically, parts of both the stormwater and sanitary sewer systems were combined until they were separated in the 1970s, forming the separate systems that exist today. This historical context underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the city as it grapples with an aging infrastructure in the face of increasingly erratic weather patterns.
The City of Savannah urges residents to do their part in minimizing flood risks by keeping storm drains, canals, and ditches free from debris. It is a violation of City ordinance to dispose of vegetative debris, litter, or trash into stormwater inlets, as blockages can lead to backups and localized flooding during heavy rain events. Residents are encouraged to visit the city’s sanitation website for more information regarding yard waste and trash disposal, ensuring a collaborative effort in maintaining the integrity of the community’s stormwater management systems.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Faces Increased Flood Risks from Outdated Maps
Savannah Prepares for Community Meetings on Stormwater Utility
Additional Resources
- WTOC: City Savannah Boosts Stormwater Sewer Maintenance
- Wikipedia: Stormwater Management
- WSAV: City of Savannah Increases Maintenance for Stormwater Sewer
- Google Search: Savannah stormwater maintenance
- Savannah Business Journal: Savannah Increases Stormwater Sewer Maintenance
- Google Scholar: Stormwater Management
- WTOC: City Savannah Boosts Stormwater Sewer Maintenance
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Stormwater
- Savannah Now: Tybee Begins Major Stormwater Development Updates
- Google News: Savannah sewer problems
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
