Getting Started with Flood Outlooks the Easy Way

Flooding is a significant concern in the United States, affecting communities across the country. Understanding and accessing flood outlooks is crucial for preparedness and safety. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining and interpreting flood outlooks effectively.

What Are Flood Outlooks?

Flood outlooks are forecasts that predict the likelihood of flooding in specific areas over a given period. They are typically issued by agencies like the National Weather Service (NWS) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). These outlooks help communities prepare for potential flooding events by providing early warnings and detailed information.

How to Access Flood Outlooks

1. National Water Prediction Service (NWPS):

• The NWS's NWPS offers real-time river gauge observations, forecasts, and long-range flood outlooks across the United States. You can access these resources through the NWPS Interactive Map Viewer. (drought.gov)

2. USGS National Water Dashboard:

• The USGS provides current flood and high-flow conditions, along with other streamflow information, via the National Water Dashboard. This tool offers real-time data on streamflow, precipitation, and flood stages. (usgs.gov)

3. FEMA's Flood Map Service Center:

• FEMA offers flood risk maps that show the long-term risk of flooding for each community in the United States. These maps can be accessed through FEMA's Flood Map Service Center. (hazards.fema.gov)

4. FloodSight:

• FloodSight is a free, no-account-required flood awareness tool that combines data from FEMA, NWS, and USGS. It provides real-time hazard data, including FEMA flood zones, NWS flood alerts, USGS river gauges, and NEXRAD radar. You can access FloodSight at floodsight.org. (floodsight.org)

Interpreting Flood Outlooks

Flood outlooks typically include information such as:

• Flood Stages: These are predefined levels that indicate the severity of flooding, ranging from minor to major.
• Forecasted Water Levels: Predicted water levels at specific locations over time.
• Probability Percentages: The likelihood of reaching certain flood stages within a given timeframe.

Understanding these elements can help you assess the potential impact of flooding in your area and make informed decisions.

Staying Prepared

Regularly monitoring flood outlooks is essential for staying informed about potential flooding events. By utilizing the resources mentioned above, you can access up-to-date information and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your property.

Remember, while these tools provide valuable information, always follow guidance from local authorities during flood events.

Highlights:

• How can I obtain river forecasts (flood forecasts)? | U.S. Geological Survey, Published on Wednesday, July 30
• Climate Prediction Center Outlooks | Drought.gov
• U.S. Hazards Outlooks - Maps | NOAA Climate.gov