News Flash

Feb. 7, 2018 - Hampton experiences both rainfall flooding from heavy and intense storms, and tidal flooding from storm systems that essentially push water from the ocean and the bay into rivers and ditches. Because many parts of the city are low-lying, there just aren’t many places for the water to go.

To help reduce flooding, Hampton is increasing the capacity of the storm drainage system and maintaining 80 outfall ditches and 196 miles of open ditches. Studies of watersheds in the city help identify which projects will be the most beneficial. And tide gauges have been installed on two waterways to help gather data and help with flooding predictions.

For the record, Hampton’s education, outreach and legislative efforts have earned residents a reduction in flood-insurance rates. Residents can also get loans to make modifications to their homes that can further lower insurance rates.

 Read more at hampton.gov/ForTheRecord