What Affected Property Owners Should Do Now

If your home, business or property was damaged by flooding:

Complete both the City and Logan County damage assessment forms.
Document damage thoroughly with photographs and video.
Keep receipts, estimates and invoices for cleanup, repairs, temporary expenses and damaged property.
Contact your homeowners or property insurance carrier and report the loss.
Keep copies of insurance correspondence, including any coverage determination or denial.
Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage and make your property safe. Do not delay necessary cleanup or emergency repairs while waiting for the City's review.

You do not need to know the full extent of your damages or wait for an insurance determination before submitting the City's form. Additional information can be provided as it becomes available.

What Happened

On Wednesday, August 19, Bellefontaine received an estimated 4 to 5 inches of rain over approximately three hours, resulting in significant flooding in multiple areas throughout the City.

Flooding was reported in several areas, including portions of the west side of the City along Caroline Street, Evansville Street, West Chillicothe Avenue, West Columbus Avenue, Troy Road and Plumvalley Street. The City also received reports of flooding along Hamilton and Spring Streets. The total number of properties affected citywide is still being determined.

One of the most serious incidents occurred in the Michigan Street area, where six homes experienced significant water intrusion.

Several years ago, the City constructed a wall, retention area and pumping system in response to recurring flooding in that neighborhood. During the August 19 storm, rising water submerged an electrical converter providing power to the pumps, causing the pumping system to become inoperable. A section of the wall also failed, allowing water from the retention area to rush through the breach and into the neighborhood.

The City immediately began efforts to obtain large-capacity pumps capable of moving the volume of water necessary to lower the retention area. Three auxiliary pumps were ultimately placed into operation, and City crews and contractors worked through the night and following days to reduce water levels and protect affected properties.

Current Status: Michigan Street

City Of Bellefontaine