What should you do in a flood

By WDIO
Severe Weather Guide Flooding
Floods account for the most thunderstorm related deaths each year.

FLOOD SAFETY
Floods account for the most thunderstorm related deaths per year, even more than tornadoes and lightning. There is a noticeable difference between a flood and a flash flood – mainly the speed at which impacts will happen and duration of impact.
 
FLOOD WATCH: Conditions are favorable for river flooding or inundation in flood plains within the watch area. Be prepared for potential rising river levels. Those near rivers or in a flood plain should consider using sandbags if necessary. Make sure sump pumps are working properly and check weather conditions regularly.  

What  should you do if a Flood Watch is issued for your area?

  • Know your surroundings. Prepare sandbags for your home if you live near a river or in a flood plain.
  • You may want to move important documents, items to higher levels of your home or business.
  • Be prepared to evacuate. Pack a bag of necessary supplies, like medication, non-perishable food and fresh water.
  • Have an evacuation plan. Know which roads will be the safest route to higher ground.
  • Watch the WDIO Storm Team Weather forecast closely.

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FLOOD WARNING: Flooding is either occurring along rivers or in flood plains or will be imminent in defined areas. Flood conditions may last as long as several days. Move to higher ground if flood water is forecast to impact your home and obey any evacuation orders.

What  should you do if a Flood Warning is issued in your area?

  • Obey evacuation orders and move to higher ground.
  • Stay away from flooded areas.
  • Do not cross a flooded road or area. You do not know what the ground is like underneath.
  • 6” of fast moving water can knock a person down.
  • 12” of fast moving water can cause a small car/SUV to float.
  • 18”+ of fast moving water can cause a large car/SUV to float.
  • Stay away from any electrical equipment that are in contact with or close contact with water.

FLASH FLOOD WATCH: Conditions are favorable for a sudden, rapid rise of water due to heavy rains. This will occur within the watch area through a set timeframe. Be prepared for rapidly rising water in low areas and rivers due to potential heavy rains. Check weather conditions frequently.

What should you do if a Flash Flood Watch is issued for your area?

  • Make sure sump pumps are working.
  • Pack a bag full of necessary supplies like fresh water, non-perishable food as well as necessary medication.

FLASH FLOOD WARNING: Sudden, rapid rises of flood waters are either happening or are imminent in the warned area.  Seek shelter and higher ground immediately.
 
What should you do if there is a Flash Flood Warning?

  • Seek shelter at higher ground.
  • Obey any evacuation orders.
  • Stay away from flooded areas.
  • Do not cross a flooded road/area.
  • 6” of fast moving water can knock a person down.
  • 12” of fast moving water can cause a small car/SUV to float.
  • 18”+ of fast moving water can cause a large car/SUV to float.