A muddy mess of debris, silt, wood and trash.
That's what's left from Tuesday's torrential rains across Western New York.
It was too much for some storm drains and sump pumps. People are either dealing with damage or feeling like they dodged a big one.
Domenic Cortese with Hammertime Radio on WBEN told us there's only so much you can do to prepare for something like this.
"Sometimes you just can't when water exceeds the capacity of storm lines."
Cortese said his yard was completely under water, like so many others.
"Hopefully the water is not in your basement. The big concern is whether water is touching anything electrical which is a shock hazard. Call an electrician before venturing down there."
Next, Cortese said check the sump pump, which is the front line of defense.
"If it's not of the right capacity or couldn't keep up with the job, it might be time to considera more powerful sump pump," he said.
Also, make sure your gutter system is working and water is flowing because water that collects around the perimeter is going to find its way to the basement. It should also be well piped away from the house.
Storm drains are owned by the municipality but homeowners must maintain them to keep them clear of debris to prevent blockages.
"Being aware of that and being ready for it is the responsibility of any homeowner," added Cortese.
"If your sump pump is not the right capacity or couldn't keep up, it might be time to consider a more powerful one"
