Stormwater & Drainage in Pomona: How Heavy Rain Impacts Your Home — And What You Can Do About It

The Pomona and Sunshine Coast hinterland area has been receiving significant rainfall, with local rainfall totals recently exceeding 400 mm in 24 hours in some places — and rain continuing to fall. Lots of heavy rain brings water where it has to go — and that often means overworking our drainage systems.

Stormwater drains, gutters, and downpipes are designed to move water away from your home. But when rain is intense or prolonged, even well-built systems can struggle.

In this article we’ll explain why stormwater problems happen in heavy rain, what you can do to minimise issues, and when it’s best to call a licensed plumber.

Why Heavy Rain Can Cause Drainage Problems

During recent prolonged wet weather and ex-tropical system remnants moving south, local catchments have become saturated and overwhelmed. As a result:

• Creeks, rivers and stormwater drains swell and overflow.

• Debris like leaves, sticks and sediment gets washed into drainage systems, blocking flow.

• Gutters and downpipes fill quickly and overflow, especially when they haven’t been cleaned recently.

Even well-maintained systems can be challenged when large amounts of water are arriving faster than they can disperse.

Common Problems During Heavy Rain

Here’s what many homeowners experience when stormwater systems struggle:

• Slow or blocked stormwater flow at storm drains

• Overflowing gutters and downpipes

• Water pooling around foundations

• Backflow into low-lying areas

Some of these issues begin with a lack of maintenance — especially blocked gutters or debris in stormwater pits — and can escalate quickly in heavy rain.

Practical Tips to Protect Your Property

Here are actionable, easy-to-implement steps you can do now:

✅ Clean Gutters and Downpipes

Clearing leaves, sticks and dirt from your gutters helps rainwater flow freely into your stormwater system (or water tank)

✅ Install Gutter Guards

Gutter guards reduce the amount of debris entering the system — especially useful in this kind of weather.

✅ Check Drainage Outlets

Make sure outdoor drains and grates are clear so water can exit quickly.

✅ Landscape to Improve Flow

Slices in the lawn and garden beds that direct flow away from your home can help keep foundations dry.

✅ Monitor During Heavy Rain

If you see water pooling or slow drainage during rain, act quickly rather than waiting until water reaches your house or garden beds.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Some issues are best handled by experts, for example:

• Persistent blockages or slow drainage that continues after rain

• Water backing up through drains or fixtures

• Stormwater pits that need professional clearing or jetting

• Suspected broken or collapsed pipes

At Plumbing & Gas Pomona, we inspect your stormwater system and recommend the most effective solution — whether it’s cleaning, repairs or installation upgrades.

Final Thoughts

With rainfall amounts as high as 445 mm recently recorded around Pomona and continued wet conditions, it’s more important than ever to take stormwater seriously.

Stormwater systems are your first line of defence against water damage — and a little maintenance now could save you time, money and stress later.

If you need help with drainage inspections, clearing blockages, or comprehensive stormwater system maintenance, Plumbing & Gas Pomona is here to help.

📞 Call us today to book a stormwater check — and stay ahead of the rain.