The forecast calls for warming temperatures over the coming weeks.

That means rapidly melting snow and ice, which can quickly form into large puddles and ponds, but the City of Prince George is prepared.

A crew of around 40 people are ready to work to ensure the City’s more than 5,500 storm drains remain as clog-free as possible to prevent traffic issues and localized flooding.

“Crews monitor areas throughout the city to spot problem drainage locations so they can be addressed before situations get out-of-hand,” says a press release from the City.

“The City’s roads and fleet division also provides crews and equipment, including snow plows, to address open ditch and culvert flooding and drainage issues.”

Residents and visitors have a new and easy way to report large puddles to the City this year as well.

Simply dial 3-1-1 within city limits and report those large puddle or flooding concerns, which will allow the City to prioritize and plan to fix them.

City crews use a variety of tools like GPS mapping and metal detectors to locate drains and steel grates buried under snow and ice.

“At this time of year, crews may use vacuum trucks to remove water from puddles and expose drains and melt ice with steam units to allow meltwater to drain freely down drains, culverts, and storm inlets,” the City says.

“Crews also employ excavators, backhoes, loaders, and graders to remove any snow and ice that may prevent water from draining properly.”

Property owners are reminded that it’s their responsibility to protect their property from the risk of localized flooding.