Flood Preparedness

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.

However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.

Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water, or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood. Every state is at risk from this hazard.

Before a Flood

  • Avoid building in a flood-prone area unless you elevate and reinforce your home
  • Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding
  • Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home
  • Contact community officials to find out if they are planning to construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering the homes in your area
  • Since standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains, and other conditions that impact our region. In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to help provide a means for property owners to financially protect themselves. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community participates in the NFIP. Participating communities agree to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA requirements to reduce the risk of flooding. 

During a Flood

If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

  • Listen to the radio or television for information.
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
  • Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain. 

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should:

  • Secure your home - bring in outdoor furniture if you have time, and move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
  • Disconnect electrical appliances.
  • Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. 

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

  • Do not walk through moving water - six inches of water can make you fall.
  • If you have to walk through water, walk where the water is not moving, and use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas - if floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and your vehicle can be quickly swept away.
    • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing a loss of control and possible stalling
    • A foot of water will float many vehicles
    • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles and pickups

After a Flood

  • Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink. 
  • Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. 
  • Avoid moving water. 
  • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. 
  • Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company. 
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. 
  • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. 
  • Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations. 
  • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards. 
  • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.