Idaho Falls Public Works has large flood problem at hand

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - Flooding has been a concern in Idaho Falls for several weeks, with some residents still recovering from May's flood.

Idaho Falls received three inches of rain in some parts. Willow Creek, bridge underpasses, and the numbered streets were the hardest hit areas.

To give an idea of the amount of water in the May flood, on average, the water treatment sewage plants receive around 9 million gallons of water per day. On May 23rd, the plant received around 33 million gallons of water.

Lingering memories from the May flood have city officials staying proactive. An additional inch of rain happened Monday in Idaho Falls. The 17th Street underpass next to Yellowstone Avenue was closed for 15 minutes as a precaution, recalling May's flood with stranded motorists and floating cars in city underpasses.

Idaho Falls Public Works Director, Chris Fredericksen, wants to examine areas to see where he can improve on the infrastructure. He says it will take a lot of time and funding to fix systems that are underground.

Residents can take action in case Idaho Falls sees more flooding. Property owners can clear out storm drains when they can. Debris such as leaves can take up extra space in the drainage system.