A History of Flooding in McKeesport, Pennsylvania

McKeesport, Pennsylvania is a city located in the Monongahela River Valley and has a history of severe flooding dating back to the late 19th century. Over the years, the city has been affected by numerous major floods, causing damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. In this essay, we'll examine the history of flooding in McKeesport and the measures taken to mitigate the impacts of such events.

The earliest recorded flood in McKeesport took place in 1884, when the Monongahela River overflowed its banks. An eye witness reported, "The water was so high, it nearly reached the second floor of my home. It was a sight I will never forget." This flood caused significant damage to the city, with many residents losing their homes and belongings. Despite the devastation, the community rallied together to rebuild and recover.

Another major flood hit McKeesport in 1936, with the Monongahela River reaching an all-time record high. An eye witness stated, "I've never seen anything like it in my life. The water was raging, and it was impossible to cross the streets. The damage was widespread, and many people were left homeless." The 1936 flood was one of the worst in the city's history, and it took years for the community to fully recover.

In the years that followed, the city of McKeesport implemented several measures to mitigate the impacts of future floods. The Army Corps of Engineers constructed a series of levees along the Monongahela River to protect the city, and the city also developed a comprehensive flood control plan. Despite these efforts, the city still experienced major floods in 1972 and 1977, causing extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

In response to the ongoing flood threat, the city of McKeesport and the Army Corps of Engineers undertook a massive flood protection project in the 1980s. This project included the construction of a new levee system, the installation of pumps, and the creation of retention basins to hold excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. The project was a success, and the city has not experienced a major flood since its completion.

Despite the success of the flood protection project, the city of McKeesport still remains at risk for smaller-scale flooding events. In recent years, the city has been affected by heavy rainfall and flash flooding, causing damage to roads, bridges, and homes. In response, the city has implemented a number of measures to address these issues, including the installation of stormwater management systems, the creation of green infrastructure, and the improvement of existing drainage systems.

In conclusion, the history of flooding in McKeesport, PA is a testament to the resilience and determination of the city's residents. Despite the devastating impacts of numerous major floods, the community has always come together to rebuild and recover. With the successful completion of the flood protection project in the 1980s and ongoing efforts to address the impacts of smaller-scale flooding events, the city is now better equipped to handle future flood threats. The lessons learned from the history of flooding in McKeesport can serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges, and as a reminder of the importance of taking proactive measures to protect against the impacts of natural disasters.