Forensic Analysis of Stormwater Flooding of a Residence
A residence in Jackson MS experienced repeated nuisance
flooding during high rain events. The owner sued the city of Jackson as well as
the neighboring property owner, claiming that modifications to the neighbor’s
fence and landscaping contributed to the flooding. EOE was hired as an expert
witness by the defendant to determine the controlling factors for the flooding.
Physical analysis included the topography, hydrography, and hydraulic
infrastructure of the area, and a detailed site assessment. Document analyses
included Federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing stormwater
management, infrastructure records of the city of Jackson, and reams of
discovery documents. An analytical
model of the neighborhood was developed and used to simulate several
hypothetical flooding events. EOE determined that impacts of the neighbor’s
fence and landscaping were likely immaterial in the modeled flooding events and
that lack of maintenance of culvert entrances was a principal factor.
Client: Carol Bufkin PLC, Jackson, MS
Reports: Interim Progress Reports 1-3
Examples of culverts used to divert stormwater in affected neighborhood.
