Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is a beautiful city with a lot to offer its residents. From great food to a rich history, there’s something for everyone in the Steel City. However, Pittsburgh is also located in a floodplain, which means that the risk of flooding is always present. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the areas of Pittsburgh that are most at risk for flooding and what you can do to protect your home.
The Three Rivers Flooding causing home basement leaks
Pittsburgh is located at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers. This location makes the city susceptible to flooding from all three rivers. In fact, major floods have occurred on all three rivers in recent history. In 2004, 2005, and 2006, the Allegheny River flooded its banks, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses in the downtown area. In 2007, the Monongahela River experienced a similar event. And in 2013, the Ohio River reached its highest level in 40 years, causing widespread flooding throughout the city.
While these events are relatively rare, they underscore the need for residents of Pittsburgh to be aware of their flood risks and take steps to protect their homes and businesses. If you live in or around one of the city’s three rivers, it’s important to know your flood zone and purchase appropriate flood insurance.
Flash Flooding around the Pittsburgh Area
In addition to river flooding, Pittsburgh is also susceptible to flash floods. Flash floods occur when heavy rains fall over a short period of time and cause water levels to rise quickly. These floods can happen with little or no warning and can cause significant damage to homes and businesses.
One of the best ways to protect your home from flash flooding is to purchase flood insurance. Flood insurance covers damage caused by water that has risen above its normal level due to heavy rains or other conditions. If you live in an area that is prone to flash flooding, it’s important to have this coverage in place so that you’re not left financially responsible for any damage that may occur.
Flooding is a serious concern for residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The city is located in a floodplain and has experienced major floods on all three of its rivers in recent history. Flash floods are also a concern due to the heavy rains that often fall in the area. Homeowners should be aware of their flood risks and take steps to protect their homes accordingly. When you do see water in your basement or cracks in your foundation walls, be sure to contact our professional basement waterproofing specialists to help keep your home safe!