It has been a month since the flooding of Dorothy Patch in Unity Township. This occurred when only 1.5 inches of rain were recorded at Latrobe — less than a mile away. There have been many higher levels of rain recorded in years past without any flooding. So why now? Is anyone interested in knowing the reason, or are the township supervisors willing to just look the other way because the families in the area tend to be of low income or could they be culpable in the event?
So what has changed? The hill above the “Patch” no longer is agricultural. It has been excavated, is barren of vegetation and contains a large water holding pond. Approximately 100 feet below sits Dorothy Patch. Did water run-off from this barren land cascade down the hill? Did the pond overflow its banks, subsequently flowing into Monastery Run causing the earthen levee to be breached and filling the “Patch” with over three feet of water?
The “Patch” has survived excessive rain before, with the last major flood occurring in 1972 following Hurricane Agnes. Were the permits issued by the township properly investigated and the possible negative consequences of storm water run-off considered?
Unity Township should be transparent and investigate the cause of the flood and if found in error not only provide the necessary housing replacement to the families of Dorothy Patch, but correct the problem so that the next heavy rain doesn’t result in loss of life. Google Earth easily shows the proximity of these locations.
David McDevitt
Jeannette