Are You Ready for a Flood or Flash Flood?
Know what to expect. Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.
When a flash 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.
- Know your area's flood risk. If you are not sure, contact your local county Department of Emergency Management, or your local planning department.
- Be alert, and during times of heavy rain listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information.
Floods can take several hours to days to develop
- 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.
Flash floods can take only a few minutes to a few hours to develop
- 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.
- Cannned food and 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 infant, elderly, or disabled family members.
- Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember that you'll need a professional to turn natural gas service back on.)
Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places:
- A friend's home in another town
- A motel
- A shelter
When a flood WATCH is issued:
- Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors in your home.
- Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.
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:
- Or, 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, creeks, 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.