Flash Flood Safety Guide: Protecting Yourself and Your Community

Flash floods are sudden, rapid floods that can occur within six hours of heavy rainfall, dam or levee failure, or the sudden release of water held by an ice jam. They can develop within minutes, making them particularly dangerous. Understanding flash flood safety is crucial to protect yourself and your community.

What Are Flash Floods?

Flash floods are characterized by a rapid rise in water levels, often within six hours of the causative event. They can occur due to heavy rainfall, dam or levee failures, or the sudden release of water held by an ice jam. These floods can move at high speeds, striking with little warning, and can erode mountainsides, roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and cause loss of life. (weather.gov)

How Do Flash Floods Occur?

Several factors contribute to flash flooding, including rainfall intensity and duration, topography, soil conditions, and ground cover. Flash floods can occur within minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam. They can move at surprisingly high speeds, striking with little warning. (weather.gov)

Flash Flood Safety Rules

When a flash flood warning is issued for your area, or when you first realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. You may only have seconds. (weather.gov)

• Get Out of Areas Subject to Flooding: This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.

• Avoid Already Flooded Areas: Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream on foot where the water is above your knees.

• If Driving: Be aware that the roadbed may not be intact under floodwaters. Turn around and go another way. Never drive through flooded roadways. Nearly half of all flood/flash flood fatalities are auto-related. (weather.gov)

• If Your Vehicle Stalls: Leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead! (weather.gov)

• Be Especially Cautious at Night: It's harder to recognize flood dangers at night.

• Do Not Camp or Park Your Vehicle Along Streams and Washes: Particularly during threatening conditions.

• Keep Children Away from High Water: Never let your children play around high water, storm drains, or other flooded areas. (weather.gov)

After the Flood

• If Fresh Food Has Come in Contact with Flood Waters: Throw it out.

• Boil Drinking Water Before Using: Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority. (weather.gov)

• Seek Necessary Medical Care: At the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available from the Red Cross.

• Do Not Visit Flood Areas: Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.

• Electrical Equipment: Should be checked and dried before being returned to service.

• Use Flashlights (Not Lanterns, Torches, or Matches): To examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.

• Report Broken Utility Lines: To appropriate authorities. (weather.gov)

How to Stay Informed

• Monitor NOAA Weather Radio: For the latest statements, watches, and warnings concerning heavy rain and flash flooding. (weather.gov)

• Stay Tuned to Local Radio and Television: For updates on weather conditions and emergency information.

Conclusion

Flash floods are a serious and sudden threat that can cause significant damage and loss of life. By understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and following safety guidelines, you can protect yourself and your community during these events.

Remember, when in doubt, turn around and seek higher ground.

Highlights:

• National Weather Service - basic flood safety rules
• Weather Safety Rules
• Flood Related Hazards