By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – Heavy rains Wednesday night caused flooding and road closures throughout the Twin Cities.

Bloomington Public Works Director Jim Karch said as much as five inches of rain was dumped on the area. He explained when so much rain hits so quickly the storm sewers can’t keep up.

“That backs up water onto the streets. It impacts creeks. It impacts streets. It impacts homes,” said Karch. “It is one of those times when you really have to be careful as a driver.”

Karch asked drivers to try and take an alternate route in the event of a flooded road. Drivers can report the flooded area to police or the Public Works Department.

Karch added sometimes residents have left grass trimmings in the street.

“That actually blocks inlets. During high rains that actually draws and that sucks right down over into an inlet and can block that inlet and cause intersection issues,” he said.

Karch said not to leave grass trimmings, branches, and/or leaves in the curb and gutter areas.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].