Water on the street

Water on the streets is part of the new climate reality. But water damage is not what we want. If we store water in a controlled manner, we can prevent that. Both the municipality and residents have a role to play in this.

As the climate changes, there are more heavy downpours. During such a downpour, the street acts as a temporary water storage area. In addition, rainwater is being diverted from the sewer system in more and more places. This means that the sewer system is now used only for wastewater. Clean rainwater flows from the downspouts onto the street, where it can seep into the ground. Or, if there is a rainwater management system in place, it is drained through the street drains into ponds, ditches, and rivers.

Preventing Water Damage

Water on the streets is therefore becoming more and more common. This can sometimes cause inconvenience, for example when there are puddles on the road after a heavy downpour. But water-related damage is not the intention. Greenery retains water and thus helps prevent inconvenience and damage. Greenery also has many other benefits. That is why we are implementing greening plans throughout the municipality. 

Clogged street drain

It’s perfectly normal for rainwater to take a while to drain away after a heavy downpour. The sewer system can’t handle that much water all at once. If the water remains standing for an unnecessarily long time, the street drain (the drain in the street) may be clogged. If there is still water standing after 2 days (48 hours), please report this to the municipality usingthe report form. 

Green Gardens

Green gardens are just as important as municipal green spaces. Fewer pavers and more grass, plants, and trees allow rainwater to seep into the soil more effectively and gradually. The municipality of Moerdijk encourages residents to make their gardens greener, in part through a Climate Grant. You can read more about this onthe page “Flooding in the Garden.”