What Is the Potential for Serious Flood Damage in Wilmington?
11/14/2021 (Permalink)
Over the Years, Wilmington Homeowners Have Often Suffered Severe Flood Damage.
Wilmington’s position along the Eastern Seaboard makes it a prime target for powerful coastal storms and the severe flooding they often bring. Torrential rains and storm surges have frequently swelled the Delaware River, overflowed the Christina River and Brandywine Creek, which pass through the city, and caused severe flood damage in local homes and businesses.
Through the years, SERVPRO technicians have helped countless homeowners in Wilmington remediate flood-damaged residences. These neighborly efforts have involved everything from water removal services and basement flooding cleanup to biohazard remediation and water damage repairs. In performing our tasks, we have witnessed the destructive effects of numerous floods, but these are a small fraction of what our area has historically experienced. A few of the more notable Wilmington floods are as follows:
- September 2021 - Hurricane Ida-related floods submerged several city blocks and forced more than 200 people to flee their homes
- May 2014 - Excessive rains from a large low-pressure system caused Brandywine Creek to overflow, wreak havoc on several residences, and disrupt travel
- September 2003 - High water that followed in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Henri damaged hundreds of homes and destroyed several local bridges
- September 1999 - Flooding connected to Hurricane Floyd caused $8 million in property damage in and around Wilmington
None of this is that astonishing, given that Delaware is in the top ten most flood-prone states. Moreover, this situation is likely to get worse because climate change is predicted to lead to more powerful storms and substantially higher sea levels soon.
Considering the real threat of flood damage in our community, it is reassuring to know that quality help is available nearby. Your friends at SERVPRO of Hockessin/Elsmere are always ready to help you at (302) 992-0104.