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Floods and Flash Floods
Floods can roll boulders the size of cars, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and pose a significant threat to human lives. Most floods develop slowly over a period of several hours to days. However, flash floods are like walls of water that develop in a matter of minutes or a few hours. Flash floods can be caused by intense storms.
If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood; listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information. Ensure that you raise your water heater and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.
- A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area.
- A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.
- A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.
- A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.
Prepare a family disaster plan
- Check to see if you have insurance that covers flooding. If not, find out how to get flood insurance.
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.
- Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing:
- First aid kit and essential medications
- Canned food and manual can opener
- At least three gallons of water per person
- Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags
- Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
- Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
- Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so.
- Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places, such as a friend's home in another area, a hotel, or a shelter.
When a flood watch is issued
- Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
- Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
- Listen to local TV and radio stations for the latest storm information.
- Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
- Bring outdoor belongings, such as patio furniture, indoors.
- If time allows move all valuable items from lower floors to higher ones.
- Be prepared to evacuate.
When a flood warning is issued
- Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.
When a flash flood watch is issued
- Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate in a moment's notice.
When a flash flood warning is issued
- If you think it has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!
- Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, gullies, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades, they are there for your safety.
- If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
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