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What Heavy Rain Is Really Washing Into Lubbock Streets - KFYO
Rain washing across Lubbock streets during a downpour picks up a surprising amount of harmful pollutants.
This process, commonly called stormwater pollution, introduces sediment and excess nutrients that cloud the water, preventing sunlight from reaching aquatic plants. It also dumps harmful bacteria, heavy metals, and other debris into our beloved playa lakes, like those in Mackenzie Park or behind the South Plains Mall. This isn't just murky water.
Common questions
What does heavy rain wash into Lubbock streets?
- Heavy rain in Lubbock washes oil, chemicals, pesticides, and trash from streets, sidewalks, and lawns. This runoff carries everyday pollutants directly into our city's drainage systems and natural water sources, including local playa lakes.
How does stormwater pollution affect Lubbock's water?
- Stormwater pollution introduces sediment and excess nutrients that cloud Lubbock's water, blocking sunlight for aquatic plants. It also deposits harmful bacteria, heavy metals, and debris into our beloved playa lakes, such as those in Mackenzie Park.
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