Brooklyn Woman Wages War on Leaf Clogs

Valeen Bhat, a Brooklyn business owner, has taken it upon herself to clear storm drains of fallen leaves, a task that has become critical as autumn progresses. Last year, her art studio for children experienced severe flooding during a sudden downpour, an event that tragically led to two deaths in the city. This incident underscored the vulnerability of New York's aging sewer systems, which struggle to cope with the intensity of modern storms.

Climate change is intensifying rainfall, causing faster and harder downpours that overwhelm century-old infrastructure not designed for such events. Ms. Bhat's initiative to clear drains, particularly those in elevated areas that can cause downhill flooding, is gaining traction. City officials, acknowledging the threat, are urging all residents to participate in clearing leaves and debris from storm drains near their homes and businesses, emphasizing that a few minutes of effort can significantly reduce the risk of flooding.