Flooding Before and After

WHAT TO DO PRIOR TO A FLOOD

1. Know the terms used to describe flooding:

FLOOD WATCH - Flooding is possible; stay tuned to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radio or commercial radio or television for additional information.

FLASH FLOOD WATCH - Flash flooding is possible; Move to higher ground; a flash flood could occur without any warning; listen to NOAA radio or commercial radio or television for additional information.

FLOOD WARNING - Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

FLASH FLOOD WARNING - A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

URBAN AND SMALL STREAM ADVISORY - Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas is occurring.

2. Learn the elevation level of your property.  This will help you to know how your property will be affected when flood levels are forecasted.

3. Purchase a NOAA weather radio with battery backup and a tone-alert feature which automatically alerts you when a Watch or Warning is issued.

4. Be prepared to evacuate 

WHAT TO DO DURING HEAVY RAINS

1.     Be aware of flash floods.  If there is any possibility of a flash flood occurring, move immediately to higher ground

2.     Listen to radio or television stations for local information

3.     Be aware of streams, drainage channels, and areas known to flood suddenly.

4.     Stay away from flood waters.  They could be contaminated.

5.     Do not walk-through moving water.  Six (6) inches of moving water can knock you off of your feet.  If you must walk in a flooded area, walk where the water is not moving.  Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

6.     Do not drive into flooded areas.  If flood waters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground (if you can do so safely). 

WHAT TO DO AFTER A FLOOD

Stay away from flood waters.  The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.  The water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. 

Stay away from moving water. 

Be aware of areas where flood waters 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.

Stay away from disaster areas. 

Continue listening to a battery-powered radio for information about where to get assistance. 

Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water if you come into contact with flood waters. 

Throw away food that has come into contact with flood waters. 

Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.