Yeah, I've been there too—slow drainage after heavy rain is usually my cue. If it doesn't clear up on its own after a day or two, I figure better safe than sorry and get the camera out. Saved myself some big headaches that way.
Yeah, that's smart thinking with the camera—better safe than sorry for sure. I've had times where I waited too long, hoping it'd clear up on its own, and ended up ankle-deep in street water. Not fun. Makes me wonder though... shouldn't the city be more proactive about this? Seems like we're always reacting after things get messy rather than preventing it beforehand. Anyway, good call being proactive yourself—it definitely pays off.
Totally get where you're coming from on the city's approach. I've seen drains that haven't been touched in months, and then we're scrambling when storms hit. Good on you for taking matters into your own hands—sometimes that's just what it takes to avoid a bigger headache later.
Had a similar issue last spring—our street looked like a mini Venice for a day or two. I ended up out there in rain boots, armed with a rake and a determination fueled by sheer annoyance. Neighbors probably thought I'd lost it, but hey, it worked. Now I make it a habit to clear leaves and debris regularly. It's oddly satisfying, plus my kids think I'm some kind of drain superhero... I'll take the ego boost where I can get it.
"Now I make it a habit to clear leaves and debris regularly."
You're spot on with regular clearing—most folks underestimate how quickly debris builds up, especially after storms. I'd also recommend checking your downspouts periodically; you'd be surprised how often they're the hidden culprit behind street flooding...