The City of Savannah Water Resources Department is stepping up its stormwater and sewer maintenance in response to heavy rainfall that hit the area in August. The National Weather Service at Hunter Army Airfield reported that Savannah received 11.79 inches of rain during the month, almost double the 30-year average of 6.79 inches. In some areas, data from Weather Underground showed totals above 20 inches.
Parts of Downtown Savannah, the Islands, and the Southside saw nearly three times their normal rainfall for August. This led to unusually high groundwater levels and put extra pressure on underground utility systems across the city.
Throughout August, the city’s stormwater drainage system was overwhelmed by persistent downpours and saturated ground conditions. City crews increased their efforts to manage flooding while continuing work on more than 16 active stormwater improvement projects, with more scheduled for the future.
To address flooding concerns, Stormwater Management staff have ramped up cleaning efforts for ditches and canals so water can flow freely from streets to rivers. Large vacuum trucks are being used across Savannah to clear inlets and respond to reports from residents.
Heavy rainfall has also led to inflow and infiltration problems in the sewer system—meaning both rainwater and groundwater are entering pipes not meant for them. This contributed to recent sanitary sewer spills and other infrastructure issues. Sewer Conveyance staff continue year-round work cleaning lines, repairing pipes, and updating old sections of pipework.
So far in 2025, sewage spills are running about 2% higher than the 20-year average of 13 annual spills. The city has dealt with 13 minor spills (under 10,000 gallons) as well as two major incidents (over 10,000 gallons).
Savannah operates the largest utility network in its region with roughly 79,000 sewer customers and over 80,000 metered water customers. Its underground infrastructure includes approximately 960 miles of sanitary sewer mains and force mains, along with hundreds of miles dedicated to stormwater conduits, ditches, canals, and water mains.
Some parts of this extensive system date back centuries; it was only in the 1970s that stormwater and sanitary sewers were separated into distinct networks.
The City encourages residents to help reduce flooding risks by keeping drains clear: “It is a violation of City ordinance to place vegetative debris, litter, or trash into stormwater inlets,” officials stated. “Blockages can cause backups and localized flooding during heavy rain events.” For details about proper disposal methods for yard waste or trash visit https://www.savannahga.gov/sanitation.
