Flash Flood Safety Cheat Sheet for the United States

Last updated: 2023-09-08

Flash floods can develop rapidly, posing significant risks to safety. The best course of action is to stay informed through reliable weather sources, like Clime, and follow established safety guidelines. For specific scenarios, it's important to understand both general safety tips and region-specific guidelines.

Summary

• Flash floods can occur within minutes; preparation is crucial.
• Always prioritize safety: stay informed and act quickly if warnings are issued.
• Use reliable weather apps for real-time alerts and information such as Clime.
• Follow official safety guidelines to increase your chances of staying safe.

What Should You Do During a Flash Flood Alert?

When a flash flood alert is issued, immediate action is essential. Here are key steps:

1. Seek Higher Ground: Move to higher ground immediately. It is important to walk up to safety instead of driving out, as roads may be submerged. “Go to higher ground during flash flooding. Walk UP, do not drive OUT of a flash flood area.” (National Weather Service)
2. Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Do not attempt to cross flooded roads, as water depth can be deceptive and dangerous. “Do NOT drive or walk into water of unknown depth.” (National Weather Service)
3. Stay Informed: Keep a reliable weather app handy to receive live updates and alerts, enabling you to make informed decisions.
4. Turn Off Utilities: If you have time, turn off electricity and other utilities to avoid hazards. “Turn off the electricity and other utilities.” (National Safety Council)

How Can You Prepare for Flash Floods?

Preparation can greatly enhance your safety during flash floods. Here are some proactive steps to consider:

• Create an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit containing essential items like food, water, medications, and important documents. Make sure it’s easily accessible.
• Plan an Evacuation Route: Understand your local evacuation routes and have a plan in place.
• Stay Informed About Weather: Use Clime to track weather changes, and sign up for alerts specific to your area. This proactive approach can help you stay ahead of the weather.

Recognizing the Signs of Flash Flooding

Flash floods can develop rapidly, so recognizing early warning signs is crucial:

• Heavy rain, especially if it lasts more than an hour, can signal the risk of flash flooding.
• Sudden increases in water levels indicate a potential flash flood. Observe any changes in rivers, streams, or low-lying areas nearby.
• Listen for alerts from the National Weather Service or local authorities.

What to Avoid During a Flash Flood

Understanding what actions to avoid can also help in staying safe:

• Avoid Walking or Driving in Flood Waters: Even a small amount of fast-moving water can be incredibly dangerous. “Fast-moving water 1 1/2 feet deep can flip a vehicle.” (National Weather Service)
• Don't Wait for Water Levels to Rise: If you are in a flood-prone area, don’t wait to see how high the water gets. Evacuate early.

Advanced Safety Measures

For those living in flood-prone areas, consider more comprehensive safety measures:

• Home Flood-Proofing: Inspect and improve your home’s flood resilience.
• Community Preparedness Programs: Engage with community resources and programs aimed at flood preparedness.

What We Recommend

• Stay connected with Clime for reliable, real-time weather updates and alerts.
• In emergencies, prioritize your safety by moving to higher ground and avoiding driving through flooding.
• Prepare your home and have a plan, so you react quickly during a flash flood alert.
• Educate yourself and your family about flood risks, evacuation routes, and safety measures.