Coastal Flood Advisory: Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Understanding Coastal Flood Advisories

A coastal flood advisory is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when flooding is possible in coastal areas. This advisory indicates that water levels are rising and may cause flooding, but it does not mean that flooding is imminent or unavoidable.

Steps to Take During a Coastal Flood Advisory

1. Monitor Conditions:

• Pay attention to local news, weather reports, and NWS updates.
• Stay aware of changing water levels and weather conditions.

2. Prepare Your Property:

• Move valuables and important documents to higher ground.
• Secure loose objects that could be washed away by rising waters.
• Bring in outdoor furniture and plants.
• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding around your home.

3. Be Prepared to Evacuate:

• Identify evacuation routes in case of flooding.
• Pack an emergency kit containing food, water, medication, and important documents.
• Consider having a portable generator or battery-powered devices in case of power outages.

4. Stay Informed:

• Monitor the NWS website and social media for updates on the advisory.
• Contact local authorities or emergency management officials for specific instructions.

Impacts of Coastal Flooding

Coastal flooding can have significant impacts, including:

• Property damage: Rising waters can damage homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
• Disruption of services: Floods can disrupt electricity, gas, water, and transportation services.
• Health hazards: Floodwaters can carry bacteria and contaminants, posing health risks.
• Environmental damage: Flooding can erode beaches, damage marshes, and harm wildlife.

Historical Coastal Flood Events

• Hurricane Katrina (2005): Caused massive flooding in New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast, with over 1,800 deaths and billions of dollars in damage.
• Hurricane Sandy (2012): Flooded coastal areas from New Jersey to Connecticut, causing widespread power outages, transportation disruptions, and over $70 billion in damage.
• Hurricane Ian (2022): Devastated coastal communities in southwest Florida, causing significant flooding, property damage, and over 100 deaths.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation

Assessing your risk:

• Determine your proximity to coastal areas and the elevation of your property.
• Review flood hazard maps for your area.
• Consider past flooding events and their impacts.

Mitigation strategies:

• Elevate your home or build a flood wall.
• Install flood-resistant windows and doors.
• Plant vegetation to help absorb floodwaters.
• Participate in flood insurance programs.

Tables for Coastal Flood Advisories