Flooding Turns Backyards Into Lakes in Kalamazoo Neighborhoods
*KALAMAZOO, Mich.* — Kalamazoo neighborhoods are still dealing with severe flooding this weekend as much of it centers around basements and backyards. The level of rainfall this week has left yards on West Prouty Street completely underwater, with neighbors telling News Channel 3 it is the worst they have ever seen this year.
It's like a lake out here
Lamont Ayers, one of the neighbors on West Prouty Street, says the flooding can take weeks to recede. He and his neighbors have dealt with this kind of flooding multiple times a year.
We don't even have drains out on the street...I think it's maybe one drain out in the front of the house," he said. "I've got young grandkids that like to play out here, and this is dangerous for them to be out here in this type of water.
Ayers and his neighbors have now called on the Kalamazoo County Drain Commissioner's office to set up a better system in the neighborhood, saying the water problem has also led to potholes on their street.
The city of Kalamazoo and Kalamazoo County remain under a state of emergency from the severe weather. City leaders announced sandbags are available at several community associations for residents to help protect their properties.
Sandbags can be found at:
- Washington Square parking lot (limited space)
- Northside Association for Community Development
- Douglass Community Association