DDOT says, “District Bracing for More Storms” – Dear PoP: What will 4 Sandbags Do?

Photo by PoPville flickr user Jess J

“Dear PoP,

Anticipating today’s rain, the dept of public works was handing out sandbags last night. However, each household was limited to 4, yes FOUR sandbags…Four sandbags would do what, exactly?…!?!?!

The District Department of Public Works will once again be handing out sandbags Wednesday. D.C. residents may pick up sandbags up to four per household at its New Jersey Avenue and K Street, SE site. (The entrance is on New Jersey at I Street, SE.) The sandbags, which weigh between 40 and 50 lbs, can be picked up until 8 p.m. Residents will need to load them into their vehicles.”

Has anyone gotten the sandbags? If you only get four where should you place them for greatest effect?

From a press release:

Heavy rains caused flooding, road closures and other problems this morning, and weather forecasts are predicting more wet weather could hit the District during this evening’s rush hour. The National Weather service says heavy rainfall is possible and a flood watch remains in effect.

Residents and commuters are reminded to use caution in storm conditions. Flash floods from small creeks and streams can inundate highways, streets and underpasses as well as other drainage areas and low lying spots. Please do not drive through high water; turn around and find a safer route.

Flooding was the major problem reported across the region this morning. In the District, standing water forced the temporary closure of several roadways including Canal Road, which remains closed at this time between Foxhall Road and Arizona Avenue. Fortunately, only a handful of traffic signals lost power and only a few downed trees were reported. Please continue to call 311 to report storm-related damage.

For frequent updates on road conditions in the District, please follow us on Twitter @DDOTDC.