As a Florida resident, experiencing daily afternoon rain showers becomes part of normal everyday life. Between the months of May through September, the possibility of daily rain is high. With this increased amount of rain, flooding conditions arise. According to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), there are three potential scenarios that will produce flooding. The first scenario is large amounts of rainfall that occur within a small window of time. The second scenario is storm events that produce high volumes of rain over an extended period, which can lead to flooding after the storm has ended. The third scenario, and perhaps the most dangerous is a storm surge flood that is caused along the coast during a hurricane or tropical storm. 

During construction, stormwater systems may not be complete and able to maintain its designed capability. With construction in Florida taking place year-round, the chances of experiencing some type of flooding at a construction site is high. Generally, the flooding experienced at a construction site will be the cause of the first two scenarios mentioned before. The most common occurrence of flooding on a construction site is caused by inadequate inlet protection that does not allow proper water flow to the stormwater management system. Prior to a major storm, consideration should be given to the type of inlet protection that is installed. Flood scenarios present an issue when dealing with material that is stored onsite. Potential pollutants such as fuel, oil, concrete, etc. should be stored in a proper container and in a covered area onsite that is not prone to flooding. Trash and construction debris should be stored in proper containers to keep them from flowing freely during flood situations. 

When dealing with potential flooding circumstances, it is important to remember the basics of good housekeeping. A site superintendent should always be aware of the site conditions and what potential safety and pollution hazards may be present on site prior, during and after flood events.