Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural hazards. Some floods develop over a period of days, but flash floods can result in raging waters in just a few minutes. Water runs off steeper ground very rapidly, causing natural drainage systems to overflow with rushing flood waters and a deadly cargo of rocks, mud, smashed trees and other debris.
Flood forecasts mean rainfall is heavy enough to cause rivers to overflow their banks or melting snow is mixing with rainfall to produce similar effects.
Flood warnings or forecasts of impending floods describe the affected river, lake or tidewater, the severity of flooding (minor, moderate or major) and when and where the flooding will begin.
A flash flood watch means heavy rains (that may cause sudden flash flooding in specified areas) are occurring or expected to occur. Understand that a flash flood can occur without any visible sign of rainfall in your area. Be alert to a possible emergency which will require immediate action.
A flash flood warning means flash flooding is occurring or imminent along certain streams and designated areas. Move to high ground immediately.
No Area Is Immune To Flash Floods!
Contact your insurance agent or local government to discuss flood insurance coverage. Flood losses are not covered under homeowners' insurance policies. Flood insurance is available in most communities through the National Flood Insurance Program. Go through the policy with your insurance agent to understand what is covered and what is not covered. Get coverage now - there is a waiting period, usually five days, before it takes effect.
Before the flood:
- Keep materials on hand such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber.
- Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up in sewer drains.
- Arrange for auxiliary electrical supplies for hospitals and other operations which are critically affected by power failure.
- Keep first aid supplies on hand.
- Keep your automobile fueled; if electric power is cut off, filling stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days.
- Keep a Family Disaster Supply Kit on hand in case power is interrupted.
- Keep a portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, lights and flashlights in working order.
- Identify dams in your area. Be aware of what could happen if they fail.
- Know your elevation above flood stage.
- Know your evacuation route.
When you receive a flood warning:
- Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted.
- If forced to leave your home, and time permits, move essential items to safe ground; fill fuel tanks to keep them from floating away; grease immovable machinery.
- Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
During the flood:
- Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
- If you are where it might flood, prepare to evacuate and to seek shelter.
- Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream where water is above your knees.
- Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road - you can be stranded or trapped. The depth of water is not always obvious.
After the flood:
- Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters.
- Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking.
- Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available at your local certifying agencies.
- Do not visit disaster areas; your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
- Do not handle live electrical equipment in wet areas; electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
- Use flashlights, not lanterns or torches, to examine buildings, flammables may be inside.
- Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.
- If you have flood insurance and suffer a loss, notify your agent.
- Ask the gas company to check your home for leaks and to turn the gas back on.
- If your basement has flooded, pump it out gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid damage. The walls may collapse and the floor may buckle if the basement is pumped out while the surrounding ground is still water-logged.
- Watch out for animals that may have taken up occupancy in the area.