What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff is precipitation from rain or melting snow that "runs off" across the land instead of seeping into the ground. This runoff usually flows into the nearest: 

  • Creek
  • Lake
  • Ocean
  • River
  • Stream

Collectively, the draining water is called stormwater runoff and is not treated in any way.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater runoff?
2. What is polluted runoff?
3. What causes polluted stormwater runoff?
4. Why do we need to manage stormwater and polluted runoff?
5. What is the City of Abilene doing about stormwater runoff?
6. How is stormwater runoff “managed”?
7. If it only affects streams and creeks, why should I care?
8. Why all the recent fuss about stormwater?
9. What is the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program?
10. What is a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)?