Hurricane season in Texas generally runs from June 1st to November 30th, with the potential to bring heavy rain and high wind gusts to areas along the gulf coast. Texas recently experienced a tropical storm that brought wind gusts of 78 mph and 14 inches of rainfall. These excessive amounts of rain and wind can have significant impacts on stormwater management systems. Strategic and timely execution of Best Management Practices (BMP) for stormwater management systems is critical before a major storm. It is suggested to do an inspection of all vulnerable infrastructures at least 48 hours before land fall of a major storm, including identifying any potential debris that may be blown around or block stormwater flow. As for treatment requirements spelled out in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for businesses and contractors, exemptions are provided for state natural disasters, including catastrophic storms.

Stormwater inlets can become easily clogged or blocked with trash, debris, and sediment during a major storm. As a BMP, removing trash and debris near inlets before a major storm will assist to improve water flow. Dome inlet protection can be used on drop inlets, these allow stormwater to flow and also filter sediment. Stormwater runoff can carry debris, sediment, and hazardous chemicals that can pollute lakes, ponds, and water systems. Be sure to secure all equipment/materials and clean up any spill of concrete slurry, consider covering your concrete washout area. If you are able to implement stabilization prior to the storm it will greatly reduce any sediment laden runoff. The use of hydro mulch, tackifiers and erosion control blankets are great ways to accomplish this. If significant rainfall is expected, a BMP to protect flood prone areas is the building of sandbag barriers. The sandbag barriers can also be used around stockpiles and construction trailers. Finally, it is recommended to reinforce silt fence in sensitive areas either by adding posts or installing compost filter socks in front of the existing silt fence. With the heavy rainfall, the silt fence may become overrun and need reinforcement. Taking extra measures before these events occur can help keep sites in compliance during significant precipitation events.