Spring has sprung across most of the United States, signaled by the welcoming sights of budding trees and colorful blooms. Perhaps not as welcome, however, are the turbulent and sometimes unpredictable weather patterns that accompany the change in season. Heavy spring rainfall can quickly swell rivers and streams, overwhelm municipal sewer systems, and flood streets — sometimes with very little warning. Although floods can happen at any time of year, now is a great time to brush up on flood safety to ensure you’re prepared to weather the storm.
Before the first drop of rain falls, it’s important to know if you’re in a flood-prone area. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an online flood map tool that can help determine if your home or neighborhood is in a flood zone. If you’re in a risk area, experts suggest purchasing or renewing a flood insurance policy and making a household plan with detailed steps to take and where to go in the event of a flood (and remember to include your four-legged family members).
If heavy rain is headed your way, be sure to monitor local radio or television stations as well as social media outlets for updates on flood risk. Many communities, especially those prone to flooding, have state or local emergency alert systems you can sign up for.
Know the difference between various alerts. A flood watch means conditions are favorable for a flash flood. A flood warning is stronger; it means flash flooding is occurring or will occur soon and usually applies to a specific geographic area. A flash flood emergency is rarer and reserved for the most catastrophic situations posing imminent danger. When evacuation orders are issued, they are not made lightly. If you are advised to evacuate, it’s important to take these orders seriously and act promptly. Floods can be very unpredictable; flow rates and water levels can rise quickly and with very little warning.
In the event of a catastrophic or life-threatening flash flood, the federal government will issue a Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) through your mobile carrier. No signup is required — and you’ll know it’s a WEA by its special tone and vibration.
If water is rising around you or your home, get to higher ground. Inside your home, move to a higher floor with windows and remember to bring your cellphone and other essential supplies. If the top floor of your home becomes unsafe, experts recommended moving to the roof. Avoid seeking shelter in an attic; you could become trapped there.
Experts strongly recommend avoiding flood waters at all costs due to numerous hazards. Submerged electrical wires, debris, contaminants, and harmful organisms, including snakes and other wildlife, pose serious risks. Although the water may not look very deep, remember it only takes six inches of moving water to sweep you off your feet (and not in a good way).
If you are in a vehicle during a flash flood, never drive into flooded roadways or around barriers. It’s impossible to tell how deep the water is; it may look shallow, but 12 inches of water can float and carry away a car or small SUV. It can also hide washed out surfaces, electrical wires, rocks, trees, sharp objects, and other hazards. Sadly, driving through flood water is the cause of more than half of flood-related deaths — and in many cases, these are preventable. Always keep the National Weather Service (NWS) motto in mind: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. It just might save your life.
For more flood safety tips, please visit weather.gov/safety/flood.
