Flash Flood Warning: What You Need to Know

A Flash Flood Warning means imminent or ongoing flash flooding is occurring in the warned area. This is a serious situation that demands immediate action. Unlike a flash flood watch, which indicates conditions are favorable for flooding, a warning means the threat is real and present.

Why Flash Floods Are So Dangerous

Flash floods are characterized by their rapid and intense nature. They can develop within minutes or hours of heavy rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or even a sudden release of water held by ice or debris. This speed is what makes them particularly dangerous. People can be caught off guard, with little time to react and seek safety.

The powerful currents associated with flash floods can easily wash away vehicles, uproot trees, and destroy buildings. Even shallow, fast-moving water can be deadly. Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and two feet of water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks.

What to Do During a Flash Flood Warning

1. Seek Higher Ground Immediately: The most important thing is to get to higher ground as quickly and safely as possible. This could mean moving to an upper floor of a building, climbing onto a roof, or moving to higher terrain away from the flooded area.
2. Do Not Drive Through Floodwaters: Never attempt to drive through floodwaters. The depth of the water is often deceiving, and the road underneath may be washed out. Your vehicle could stall and become trapped, or worse, be swept away.
3. Avoid Walking or Wading Through Floodwaters: Even if the water appears shallow, it could be concealing debris, dangerous currents, or other hazards. There may also be electrical hazards if power lines are down.
4. Monitor Official Sources: Stay informed by monitoring official sources like NOAA Weather Radio, local news outlets, and emergency management agencies for updates and instructions.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to changing water levels and potential hazards. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see.
6. Follow Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately and go to a designated shelter.
7. After the Flood: Stay away from floodwaters. Be aware of possible structural damage to your home. Report downed power lines.

How to Prepare for a Flash Flood

While flash floods are unpredictable, you can take steps to prepare:

• Know Your Flood Risk: Determine if you live in a flood-prone area. Your local emergency management agency can provide information about flood zones and past flood events.
• Develop a Flood Plan: Have a plan in place for what you will do if a flash flood occurs. This should include an evacuation route, a meeting place for your family, and a supply kit with essential items like water, food, and medications.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Sign up for local emergency alerts to receive notifications about severe weather, including flash flood warnings.
• Purchase Flood Insurance: Standard homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover flood damage. Consider purchasing flood insurance if you live in a flood-prone area.

Taking these precautions can significantly increase your safety and the safety of your loved ones during a flash flood emergency.