The colorful leaves covering Northern Nevada yards and streets are a sure sign that fall is winding down. But with rain, gusty winds, and colder temperatures moving into the region, those beautiful piles could quickly become a problem for local streets and storm drains.
As the first real taste of winter weather arrives, residents and businesses have another seasonal chore to add to their list: clearing leaves and debris before more storms move through.
The National Weather Service in Reno is forecasting rain across western Nevada on Friday, Nov. 13, with gusty winds and colder temperatures. After a brief break over the weekend, another colder storm system is expected to bring additional rain Sunday night into Tuesday, Nov. 17. Forecasters are also watching another system that could bring more Sierra snow and potentially lower snow levels across western Nevada later next week, according to the National Weather Service Reno.
All that weather could make fallen leaves more than just a nuisance. As leaves collect along curbs, gutters, and drainage areas, rain can wash them toward storm drain openings. When leaves and other debris build up, they can restrict water flow and contribute to localized flooding.
According to Washoe County's stormwater maintenance guidelines, maintaining drainage systems is a shared responsibility between public agencies and private property owners. The county warns that weeds, sediment, garbage, grass clippings, and other debris can reduce drainage capacity and contribute to localized flooding.
The county recommends that property owners inspect drainage facilities on their properties and clear plugged areas in the spring, fall, and after significant storms. Private drainage facilities outside county-owned rights-of-way and easements are generally the responsibility of property owners or homeowners associations.
There are also local rules for keeping public areas clear. Reno's property maintenance standards require people responsible for a property to maintain adjoining sidewalks, gutters, street edges, and alleys in a clean condition. The standards also require debris and obstructions to be removed promptly. More information is available in the City of Reno's property maintenance code.
For residents outside Reno city limits, maintenance responsibilities can differ. Washoe County maintains public drainage systems along county roads, while private drainage facilities generally remain the responsibility of property owners or HOAs.
Residents who notice clogged catch basins, flooded streets, or other drainage problems can report them through the Truckee Meadows Stormwater Program. The program provides the following contacts:
Reno: 775-334-INFO (4636)
Sparks: 775-861-4152
Washoe County: 311 or 775-328-2003
While clearing leaves may not be everyone's favorite fall activity, the season also brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy them. From weekend raking to kids jumping into piles and pets playing in the colorful leaves, it's one of the simple pleasures of the changing seasons.
We want to see how fall is looking in your neighborhood! Whether it's a beautiful tree, a yard covered in leaves, a family enjoying a pile, or a pet making the most of the season, share your favorite Northern Nevada fall photos with us.
Email your pictures to producers@ktvn.com or share them in the comments on our social media post. Please include the photographer's name so we can give proper credit.
We'll share as many as possible in a photo gallery on our website!
