Responding to Floods
Stay alert and informed:
• Know your area's flood risk - if unsure, call your state or local emergency management office.
• There is the possibility of flooding if it has been raining heavily for several hours or steadily raining for several days.
• Be alert if unusually warm weather occurs after a snowy period or an extended period of cold weather.
• Listen to your NOAA Weather Radio or your local radio or TV stations for flood information.
When a flood watch is issued:
• Flooding is possible in your area.
• Be prepared to act quickly and move to higher ground.
• If possible, move furniture, valuables and equipment to a higher floor of your home. If you have only one floor, place items on shelves, tables or countertops.
• Place important documents in waterproof containers.
•Get emergency supplies ready.
• Fill your vehicle's gas tank in case an evacuation is ordered.
When a flood warning is issued:
• Flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.
• You might need to evacuate quickly to higher ground.
• Listen to your NOAA weather radio or local TV or radio station for recommended evacuation routes.
• If you are driving and come upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find another route.
When a flash flood watch is issued:
• Conditions are in place that could cause rapid and dangerous (flash) flooding in your area.
• Be alert to signs of flooding and be ready to evacuate at a moment's notice.
• Follow steps for flood watch.
When a flash flood warning is issued:
• Water is rapidly rising and is flooding your area or will be soon.
• Evacuate immediately! You might have only seconds to escape.
• Move quickly to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains.
• If you are driving and come upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find another route.
• If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.