Rain? Let's be Prepared: Surviving a Flash Flood

Flash floods are not just for the movies. They can happen anywhere, anytime, and they can be deadly. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, flash floods account for more than half of all flood-related deaths in the United States.

What is a flash flood?

A flash flood is a rapidly rising flood that occurs within 6 hours or less of a heavy rainfall or dam or levee failure. Flash floods can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Intense rainfall from thunderstorms
• Sudden dam or levee failure
• Ice jams in rivers
• Rapid snowmelt

Flash floods can move at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour, and they can carry away cars, homes, and even people.

Am I at risk for a flash flood?

Anyone who lives in an area that is prone to flooding is at risk for a flash flood. However, there are some factors that can increase your risk, including:

• Living in a low-lying area
• Living near a river or stream
• Living in an area that has been recently burned
• Living in an area that is prone to landslides

What should I do if I am caught in a flash flood?

If you are caught in a flash flood, the most important thing to do is to get to higher ground immediately. Do not try to drive through a flooded area. Even a few inches of water can cause your car to stall.

If you cannot get to higher ground, find a sturdy object to hold onto and stay there until the floodwaters recede. Do not try to swim in floodwaters, as they can be very strong and contain hidden hazards.

How can I prepare for a flash flood?

There are a number of things you can do to prepare for a flash flood, including:

• Make an emergency plan. Your plan should include a place to meet if your family gets separated, as well as contact information for your family and friends.
• Have an emergency kit. Your kit should include food, water, first-aid supplies, and other essential items.
• Be aware of the flood risk in your area. Know the evacuation routes and the location of higher ground.
• Listen to weather forecasts. Be aware of the weather forecast and listen for any warnings of flash floods.
• Stay informed. Sign up for local emergency alerts and follow your local news station for updates on the flood situation.

What are the common mistakes to avoid during a flash flood?

There are a number of common mistakes that people make during a flash flood, including:

• Trying to drive through flooded areas. Even a few inches of water can cause your car to stall.
• Swimming in floodwaters. Floodwaters can be very strong and contain hidden hazards.
• Ignoring evacuation orders. If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Going back for belongings. Do not go back into a flooded area to retrieve belongings. Your life is more important than your belongings.

What are the tips and tricks for surviving a flash flood?

There are a number of tips and tricks that can help you survive a flash flood, including:

• Stay calm. It is important to stay calm and think clearly during a flash flood.
• Get to higher ground immediately. Do not try to drive through a flooded area.
• If you cannot get to higher ground, find a sturdy object to hold onto. Stay there until the floodwaters recede.
• Do not swim in floodwaters. Floodwaters can be very strong and contain hidden hazards.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Look for downed power lines, trees, and other hazards.
• Listen to the advice of local officials. Follow the instructions of local officials and emergency responders.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a flash flood and a regular flood?

A: A flash flood is a rapidly rising flood that occurs within 6 hours or less of a heavy rainfall or dam or levee failure. Regular floods typically develop over a longer period of time.

Q: What are the most common causes of flash floods?

A: The most common causes of flash floods are intense rainfall from thunderstorms and dam or levee failures.

Q: What are the dangers of flash floods?

A: Flash floods can be very dangerous. They can carry away cars, homes, and even people. They can also cause drowning, electrocution, and hypothermia.

Q: What should I do if I am caught in a flash flood?

A: If you are caught in a flash flood, the most important thing to do is to get to higher ground immediately. Do not try to drive through a flooded area.

Q: How can I prepare for a flash flood?

A: There are a number of things you can do to prepare for a flash flood, including making an emergency plan, having an emergency kit, and being aware of the flood risk in your area.

Call to Action

Flash floods are a serious threat, but they can be survived. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can help keep yourself and your family safe.

Tables

Table 1: Flash Flood Fatalities by State

Table 2: Flash Flood Causes

Table 3: Flash Flood Preparedness Tips