Flash Floods Can Sweep You Away in Seconds. Here's How to Survive
Flash flooding is one of the most sudden and dangerous types of severe weather, and it can strike with little to no warning. As indicated by the description "flash," this type of flooding can happen in an instant.
Here is what you need to know to protect yourself and your loved ones should a flash flooding event hit your area.
Understanding the Dangers of Flash Flooding
One of the most important things to know about a flash flooding event is that a small amount of water has the ability to sweep you off of your feet or send your vehicle down the waterway.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), flash floods can occur in just minutes after heavy rain. This is why it's important to take a flash floods warning seriously.
Alternatively, this type of flooding event can also take hours to develop after excessive rainfall. Desert terrains often see flash flooding happen across dry river beds a long distance from where the rain is falling. The quickly rising water levels associated with flash flooding can also generate mudslides and debris flows.
The areas most at risk of flash flooding are low-lying communities and land surrounded by streams and rivers. Flash floods are also known for their power, striking with enough velocity to knock even the largest people off their feet. A vehicle can be swept away in water that only measures a foot deep, tricking motorists into thinking that they can drive safely through it without any danger.
The majority of flash flooding events are triggered by thunderstorms that stall out over a particular area or several storms that train over the same region. Heavy rain associated with tropical weather events is also a common culprit for flash flooding.
Preparing for a Flood
Flash flooding events are also highly unpredictable, often happening with just a minute of notice. This makes it vital to prepare yourself for the potential of flooding, especially if you live in an area prone to these events.
The first step of active preparation is to create a solid communication plan. Everyone in your family should know where to meet should a flood hit your area. Having a plan that everyone understands will provide guidance during a weather emergency.
Like with any severe weather event, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Keep in mind that water service could be compromised during a flash flood. This is why you should always keep enough bottled water on hand to last at least three days.
Other supplies that will help you to deal with the unexpected include flashlights, batteries, blankets, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered radio so that you can stay abreast of the latest news.
This is also a good time to understand the specific risk in your area. Familiarizing yourself with the best evacuation routes to find higher ground will prove invaluable during a time of panic. Reviewing your home insurance coverage is also important so that you are not left with unexpected monetary costs.
Lastly, preparing your home for any type of flooding event can save significant money and hassle down the road. For instance, if your home leans on a sump pump, it is imperative to ensure that it is always working properly.
What to Do in a Flash Flood
Should a flash flood hit your area, the first thing to do is to get to higher ground as quickly as possible. Listen to local officials and obey all evacuation orders. Do not make the mistake of thinking that you can ride it out. Be sure to turn off all electric appliances and disconnect utilities when evacuating your home.
One of the biggest hidden dangers of a flash flooding event is electrocution. As such, it is important to stay away from water that may have risen over electrical outlets or cords. A buzzing sound or the presence of sparks is a dead giveaway that the water could be charged.
Just as you should not drive through floodwaters, you also should not walk through these waters. The depth of floodwaters can be deceiving, appearing lower than it truly is. This water can also obscure dangers such as live electrical wires, toxins, and sharp objects.
Steps to Take After a Flood
The hazards of a flash flooding event are not over when the rain has stopped and the water has started to recede. You now know what to do in a flash flood, but what about days after a flood?
Being intentional about staying informed of what is happening in your specific community will go a long way in ensuring your personal safety.
For example, it is not unusual to be under a boil water notice after a flash flooding event. Seeking out information from the local utility companies will also help you to get up and running as quickly as possible. Experts also warn against using a portable generator inside a home or garage as this is a leading cause of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Listen to the local authorities and stay out of damaged structures until you are given the all-clear signal. Following all of these guidelines will boost your odds of getting out unscathed.
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