Because of this weekend's rain and higher temperatures, which caused last week's accumulation of snow and ice to melt, minor flooding has been reported across the region and continues to be expected for the beginning of the week.
Albemarle County prepared for the flooding by clearing drains and warning residents to drive with caution. Although there is no official flood warning, Albemarle County also recommends residents stock up on basic supplies such as bottled water, flashlights and canned food.
University Chief Facilities Officer Robert Dillman, however, said the University is not in any grave danger.
"I do not expect any flooding," he said. "There will be no problems for the University" because of the melting snow.
University Utilities Director Cheryl Gomez added that most of the possible flooding already occurred this weekend. Many of the roads that were covered with water Saturday already are back in use.
"I am surprised that the University has not had more problems and that the buildings have not flooded," she said.
Gomez, who was at the forefront of the University's water conservation efforts this fall concerning the drought conditions, said she is very pleased with the precipitation and the abundance of water in the county.
"A lot of [the snow] is soaking into the ground, which helps us and the water conservation efforts a lot," Gomez said.
University Director of Facilities Operation Chris Willis, a long-time Charlottesville resident, said the flooding has not surprised him.
"This [flooding] is typical here whenever heavy snow occurs followed by warmer temperatures," he said.
The ground almost completely has been saturated, Willis said, which is why areas such as the Lawn and Madison Bowl are holding the water until further draining occurs.
"Grounds in general will be in very bad shape," he said.
Willis' crew prepared Thursday and Friday for the predicted flooding by clearing storm drains and paths around Grounds. Because of their work, flooding is not likely to be a problem for Lawn residents or for the University as whole, according to Willis.
"If there had been any major flooding on Grounds or problems in the buildings, I would have been called," Willis said.
Students and faculty can help in the prevention of further flooding by making an effort to not litter, he added.
"Littering can be one of the worst problems," he said. "Litter clogs the storm drains and can be very harmful."
All in all, officials say the flooding should prove to be a "nuisance" at worst. Works crews will remain on call, however, throughout the week.
"For now, we need to [do our part] by driving cautiously as the water levels decline," Willis said.
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