What to do when a flash flood hits
Flash floods can unfold in moments and wreak havoc. Surprisingly small amounts moving water can sweep you or your vehicle away. Here's what you need to know before, during and after a flood, since preparation can be critical and life-saving.
Only six inches of water is enough to sweep a person off their feet. A foot of moving water can carry away a vehicle.
Flooding is a threat across the United States year-round. In the first few weeks of July, the dangers of flash floods have plagued the Northeast, including Vermont’s worst flood in over 100 years that brought many of the state’s dams to capacity.
Flash floods can happen minutes to hours after a period of excessive rainfall or a sudden release of water from a dam failure or ice jam, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). In the desert, flash floods can roar through dry river beds miles away from where the heavy rain is falling. This makes them incredibly dangerous. These floods are sudden and fierce, with rapidly rising water that can cause severe damage and trigger mudslides.
Low-lying areas with streams, rivers and storm drains are most at risk of flash flooding, according to the NWS.
In addition to forming rapidly, flash floods also move quickly and powerfully. Just 6 inches of moving water could easily knock a person off their feet or stall a car when water is sucked into the tailpipe. If the water reaches a foot deep, it can sweep away most vehicles, the NWS reports.
"It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters," the NWS notes on its page to promote its famous Turn Around Don't Drown® safety message.
As of July 13, 2023, there have been 34 fatalities related to floods in the United States, according to NWS data. Floods killed 102 people in the United States in 2022, but almost half — 48 deaths — were reported in July.
Most flash flooding is caused by slow-moving thunderstorms, multiple storms moving over the same area, or heavy rain from hurricanes or tropical storms.
Flash floods can vary in how fast they form. While forecasters can anticipate where some floods will happen weeks in advance, others can occur with very little notice. Here are some tips to prepare yourself for the possibility of floods.
•Create a communication plan. Whether this takes the form of having a specific person to contact to update your status or a safe location to meet up with loved ones, having a plan in place will give you peace of mind.
•Prepare for an emergency. Water service may be interrupted during a flash flooding event. It is good practice to have enough water, food and medicine to last at least three days in case of an emergency. Supplies like batteries, blankets, flashlights, a first aid kit and a battery-powered radio will also be helpful.
•Know your risk. Research and understand the fastest way to get to higher ground and how flash floods might affect your area. If it’s likely your home will flood, don’t wait. Evacuate yourself and your family.
•Prepare your home. If you're home has a sump pump, make sure it is working and consider having a backup. Mark your electric circuit breakers clearly for each area of your home. Ensure your insurance covers flooding — standard homeowner’s insurance does not (this must be done in advance before a threat of flooding emerges). Make sure all electronic devices are charged.
•Get to higher ground, especially if you live in a flood-prone or low-lying area.
•Obey evacuation orders. If authorities tell you to evacuate, do it immediately. Lock your home and disconnect utilities and appliances if you have time.
•Practice electrical safety. If water levels rise to cover electrical outlets or cords, do not enter the room or your basement. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it, especially if you see sparks or hear crackling or buzzing noises.
•Avoid floodwaters. Do not walk or drive through floodwaters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet, and 12 inches to sweep away your vehicle. If you’re trapped by moving water, get to the highest possible point and call 911. Do not drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade — turn around. Floodwater is often deeper than it appears and can hide hazards like sharp objects or electrical wires.
•Stay informed. Follow your local news outlets or social media for updated information on road conditions. Ensure your water is safe to use — authorities may recommend boiling water after a flood. Utility companies may have services or apps to help you get service back. Never use a portable generator inside your home or garage — carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms that cause power outages.
•Avoid floodwaters. Standing water hides danger, like sharp objects or toxins. Avoid driving on a flooded road and listen to all emergency responders.
•Wait for the all-clear. Do not enter a flood-damaged building until authorities say it’s safe. If you do enter, be extremely cautious as water can cause walls to collapse or ceilings to fall. Make sure the electrical system has been turned off.
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