Flash floods are sudden and dangerous weather events that can occur with little to no warning, causing significant damage and putting lives at risk. When you receive a flash flood warning, it’s critical to take immediate action to protect yourself, your family, and your property. This guide covers what to do when you receive a flash flood warning, along with practical safety tips to keep you out of harm's way.
What is a Flash Flood Warning?
A flash flood warning is issued by weather agencies, such as the National Weather Service (NWS), when flash flooding is imminent or already occurring in a specific area. Unlike regular flooding, flash floods develop rapidly, often within minutes or hours after heavy rain, dam breaks, or the release of water from levees. These floods can sweep away vehicles, uproot trees, and inundate homes.
Steps to Take When You Receive a Flash Flood Warning
1. Act Immediately Once you receive a flash flood warning, you should act immediately. Time is critical, and waiting to see what happens could put you in danger. Whether the warning comes through your phone, radio, or local news, it’s important to prioritize safety over any tasks you may be doing.
2. Avoid Flood-Prone Areas If you're outside, stay away from areas known to flood, such as low-lying zones, rivers, creeks, and drainage channels. Even if you think the water level seems manageable, flash floods can rise quickly and unexpectedly, turning a shallow stream into a dangerous torrent.
3. Move to Higher Ground The best way to protect yourself during a flash flood is to move to higher ground as quickly as possible. This could mean going to the second floor of your home, a nearby hill, or simply leaving a vulnerable area if you're outside.
4. Turn Around, Don’t Drown One of the most crucial pieces of advice for flash flood safety is "Turn Around, Don’t Drown." Even shallow floodwaters can be deceptively strong. Just six inches of water can sweep you off your feet, and as little as two feet of water can carry away most vehicles. If you’re driving and encounter a flooded road, turn around and find another route.
5. Stay Informed with Weather Updates Use your phone, a battery-powered radio, or TV to stay informed about changing weather conditions. Be on the lookout for emergency alerts and updates from local authorities. They may provide evacuation instructions or additional warnings for worsening conditions.
What to Do If You're at Home During a Flash Flood Warning
1. Move Valuable Items to Higher Floors If you have time and it’s safe to do so, move any valuable or irreplaceable items to an upper floor to protect them from rising water. This includes important documents, electronics, and heirlooms.
2. Prepare for Potential Power Loss Flash floods often lead to power outages. Have a flashlight, extra batteries, and a fully charged phone at the ready. It’s also wise to have an emergency kit with food, water, and first aid supplies in case the situation worsens.
3. Avoid Basements and Low Areas Do not take shelter in your basement or any low-lying area of your home. Water accumulates quickly in these spaces, and you could become trapped. Instead, go to a higher floor or even the roof if necessary.
4. Shut Off Utilities (If Time Permits) If you have enough time and the flood risk is severe, consider shutting off utilities like gas, water, and electricity to avoid potential hazards. Only do this if there is no immediate threat to your safety.
What to Do If You’re Driving During a Flash Flood Warning
1. Avoid Driving if Possible If you receive a flash flood warning while driving, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. If you are in a low-lying area or near a river, consider moving to higher ground and parking somewhere safe.
2. Never Cross Flooded Roads Never attempt to drive through flooded roads. You cannot accurately gauge how deep the water is, and moving water can easily carry away a vehicle. Instead, turn around and seek an alternate, safer route.
3. Abandon Your Vehicle if Necessary If your vehicle becomes trapped in floodwaters, abandon the car and move to higher ground immediately. Trying to stay in the car could be fatal if the water continues to rise.
What to Do After the Flash Flood
1. Wait for the "All Clear" Once the floodwaters recede, do not assume the danger has passed. Wait for an official "all clear" from authorities before returning to flooded areas.
2. Avoid Floodwaters Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or debris. It may also hide downed power lines or sharp objects. Avoid walking through it whenever possible.
3. Inspect Your Home Once it’s safe, carefully inspect your home for damage. Be cautious of weakened structures and potential hazards, such as gas leaks or electrical issues. Take photos of any damage for insurance claims.
4. Contact Your Insurance If your home or property suffered damage during the flood, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide documentation and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
Conclusion
Receiving a flash flood warning can be alarming, but knowing how to respond could save your life. By acting quickly, avoiding flooded areas, and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during these dangerous events. Remember, flash floods happen rapidly, so taking immediate steps to move to safety is the key to survival.
