Summer in Pennsylvania often brings heavy rainstorms, and with them, increased stormwater runoff. Stormwater is rainwater or melted snow that flows over roads, driveways, and lawns, picking up pollutants like oil, trash, and fertilizers before entering local streams, rivers, and lakes.

In the warmer months, intense downpours can overwhelm storm drains and cause localized flooding. Impervious surfaces—like pavement and rooftops—prevent water from soaking into the ground, sending it rushing into stormwater systems. This can lead to erosion, water pollution, and damage to infrastructure.

Homeowners can help by installing rain gardens, using rain barrels, and reducing lawn chemicals. Simple actions like cleaning gutters and directing downspouts away from paved areas can also reduce runoff.

Stormwater is everyone’s responsibility. Together, we can protect Pennsylvania’s waterways and communities by managing summer rains more sustainably.