As hurricane season approaches, having a storm-proof wastewater system is just as important as securing your property or stocking up on supplies. Whether you manage a municipal plant, run a business with onsite treatment, or oversee a neighborhood system, early action is essential to avoid costly damage and service disruptions. At Waste Management Pros of the Southeast, we help communities and companies build storm-resilient systems that can weather even the toughest conditions. Don’t wait for the forecast—here’s what you must know to prepare now.

Why Wastewater Systems Are Vulnerable During Storms

Heavy rain, high winds, and power outages wreak havoc on wastewater infrastructure. Some of the most common storm-related failures include:

• Flooded septic tanks or lift stations
• System backups due to groundwater infiltration
• Power loss to pumps and control panels
• Structural damage to tanks and piping
• Overflow or contamination of nearby water sources

These failures don’t just pose operational headaches—they can also lead to environmental hazards and costly repairs. That’s why it’s critical to have a storm-proof wastewater system.

1. Perform Pre-Season Maintenance

Before hurricane season hits full swing, inspect and service every component of your wastewater system. This includes:

• Pumps and lift stations: Ensure pumps are working efficiently and that check valves are functioning.
• Tanks: Check for cracks, leaks, or signs of wear.
• Control panels: Test alarms, electrical components, and backup power systems.
• Drain fields: Look for signs of saturation or poor drainage—these areas will be most vulnerable in a storm.

If it’s been a while since your last full inspection, schedule one now with a licensed technician. Preventative maintenance saves time, money, and major stress when storms hit.

2. Reinforce and Protect Critical Equipment

The physical safety of your system is just as important as its function. To storm-proof your infrastructure make sure to:

• Elevate control panels above anticipated flood levels
• Anchor tanks and equipment to prevent flotation or movement in flood conditions
• Waterproof enclosures around electrical components and panels
• Clear debris from surrounding areas to prevent blockages or damage
• Secure access covers on tanks and lift stations to keep stormwater and debris out

If your system is in a flood-prone area, consider installing check valves to prevent backflow and bypass pumps for temporary emergency use.

3. Develop an Emergency Response Plan

Every municipality, HOA, or business should have a documented plan in place to address wastewater operations before, during, and after a storm.

Your emergency plan should include:

• A pre-storm checklist for inspections and reinforcements
• Contact information for key personnel and emergency services
• A list of backup suppliers for critical parts or fuel
• Clear shutdown and restart procedures
• Instructions for deploying generators or mobile treatment units

If possible, perform a dry run with your team ahead of peak hurricane season to ensure everyone is clear on roles and timelines.

4. Know What to Do After the Storm

Even with the best preparation and storm-proof systems in place, damage may still occur. Once the storm has passed:

• Inspect your system thoroughly before reactivating equipment
• Document any damage for insurance or FEMA reporting
• Pump flooded tanks only after groundwater recedes to avoid collapse
• Test effluent quality before resuming regular operations
• Report overflows or contamination incidents to the proper authorities

Quick action after the storm helps protect public health, the environment, and your infrastructure.

Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation

Hurricanes don’t wait—and neither should your wastewater planning. At Waste Management Pros of the Southeast, we specialize in helping communities and businesses build resilient, storm-proof wastewater systems that stand up to whatever the season brings. 

Now is the time to build smarter and stronger. Contact our team today to learn how we can help you design and reinforce systems that withstand even the most intense storm seasons.