10 Flood Facts That Could Save Your Life
Flooding has become a primary global concern in recent years as risks rise alongside an ever-changing climate. Since the late 19th century, the earth's surface temperature has increased by about 2°F.
This temperature increase allows the atmosphere to retain more significant amounts of moisture— fueling heavier rainfall and more extreme storms. Experts predict that extreme precipitation events will continue to increase up to three times the historical average in the next century alone.
Flash floods can strike anywhere, and the truth is, we're all in a flood zone. With flooding threats becoming more common and severe, understanding the facts and preparing is more important than ever.
Key Causes Flooding Events
Flood events often occur as an effect of failed dams and weather events such as:
Hurricanes
Tropical Storms
Tsunamis
Wildfires
Excessive Snowmelt
Volcanos
Earthquakes
Flash Flooding from Heavy Rainfall
10 Essential Facts About Flooding You Need to Know
Flooding is a serious and often underestimated threat— causing widespread devastation and posing significant risks to life and property for millions across the U.S. each year. Everyone should know and understand these 10 key facts about flooding.
Floods are the most common natural disaster in the U.S.
A whopping 90% of natural disasters within the U.S. involve flooding. It occurs when an area that is typically dry experiences an overflow of water onto the land.
At least one flooding event for 300 days of the year has occurred in the U.S. since 2000 across all 50 states. National Geographic says these natural disasters average $6 billion in yearly damage.
Flash floods are the No. 1 weather-related killer in the U.S.
Flash floods can develop in minutes depending on rainfall intensity, soil conditions, ground cover, and topography. Many fail to realize the power of water, consequently leading to the reality of this flood fact.
The average amount of flood-related deaths in the U.S. is 127 people per year.
Many people have lost their lives attempting to conquer flood waters in their vehicles rather than finding a safe detour. You have most likely heard the phrase "Turn Around... Don't Drown." Deaths of this nature are 100% preventable by avoiding entering floodwaters, whether traveling in a vehicle or on foot.
Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock you down.
Knocking an adult off their feet only takes six inches of fast-moving floodwater. Twelve inches of rushing water is substantial enough to carry away cars, and a mere two feet is sufficient to sweep away trucks and SUVs.
Drivers attempting to take on flood waters in their vehicles account for 66% of flood-related deaths. Avoid walking and driving through flood waters at all costs. The depth is often more profound than most people realize and can potentially contain contaminants or hazardous debris.
Flood frequency has increased by 300-900% along U.S. coasts.
Many locations along the U.S. coastline have seen a significant increase in flooding since the 1950s. The East and Gulf coasts have become increasingly more vulnerable as the rising ocean levels continue to bridge the gap between land and sea levels.
The acceleration in the frequency of these events poses an increasing threat to infrastructure, property, and public health for the 40% of Americans residing in coastal regions.
Everyone is at risk of experiencing a flood.
This disastrous event is a coast-to-coast risk in the United States. Flooding events can occur at any time of the year, displaying no specific seasonal trends. The chances of your home being affected by a flood over 30 years are five times higher than a home fire—over 40% of flood insurance claims for structures outside of high-risk floodplains.
Flood waters hide dangerous hazards.
Avoid entering flood waters at all costs, as unseen hazards may be lurking beneath the surface. Flash flood systems may potentially contain:
Flesh-eating bacteria, feces, toxic waste
Downed powerlines
Sharp debris
Sinkholes
Wildlife— snakes, alligators, spiders, scorpions, etc.
Flash floods can send water 20 feet high, causing devastating damage.
The sudden onset and large volume of water define flash floods. Water has the potential to rise 10-20 feet in extreme cases. A surge of this intensity will devastate anything, sweeping away buildings and damaging infrastructure and the surrounding environment.
There are three main types of floods.
The three types of flooding are:
Coastal Floods: Also referred to as storm surges, coastal flooding happens when a volatile storm system, such as a hurricane or tsunami, coincides with the high tide and forces large amounts of water onshore.
River Floods: River or fluvial floods occur when water from lakes or rivers overflows onto surrounding land. These situations are often due to excessive snowmelt or intense rainfall.
Flash Floods: These are also known as pluvial floods and are triggered when extreme rainfall causes flooding independent of a body of water. These events can happen anywhere in the U.S.
Flash flood warnings issued by the NWS signal immediate danger.
The NWS consistently monitors precipitation levels and weather patterns to help mitigate the risks of flooding events. When they issue a public warning, it is a sign to take immediate action— find higher ground and implement your emergency plan.
NWS issues 'watches' 36 hours in advance and flash flood warnings between 3-12 hours before an event.
Flash floods can lead to landslides and sinkholes.
Flash floods can trigger landslides by soaking the ground, making slopes unstable and more likely to collapse.
They can also cause sinkholes by adding weight to the soil, leading to underground erosion. When debris blocks water flow through these sinkholes, it can cause additional flooding in nearby areas, adding even more danger to an already hazardous situation.
The Need for Flood Preparedness
In light of the increasing frequency and severity of floods, it is imperative for individuals and communities to prioritize flood preparedness.
Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones by implementing flood prevention measures at home, heeding warnings from authorities, and developing emergency plans.
Remember: staying aware and taking action can save lives and minimize damage when the waters rise
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