Coastal Flood Advisory: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Safe

What is a Coastal Flood Advisory?

A coastal flood advisory is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when flooding is expected along the coast due to high tide, storm surge, or other factors. It does not mean that flooding is currently happening, but it does indicate that residents should be prepared for potential flooding.

What are the Impacts of Coastal Flooding?

Coastal flooding can have a significant impact on communities, including:

• Property damage: Flooding can damage homes, businesses, and other buildings.
• Infrastructure damage: Flooding can also damage roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.
• Disruption of essential services: Flooding can disrupt essential services such as electricity, water, and transportation.
• Economic losses: Flooding can result in economic losses due to business closures, lost revenue, and increased insurance costs.
• Health and safety risks: Flooding can pose health and safety risks such as drowning, electrocution, and mold exposure.

What to Do During a Coastal Flood Advisory

If you are in an area under a coastal flood advisory, you should take the following steps:

• Monitor weather conditions: Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and advisories.
• Elevate valuables: Move valuables and important documents to higher levels to protect them from flooding.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Have an emergency kit with items such as food, water, first aid, and medications.
• Be ready to evacuate: If flooding is imminent, be prepared to evacuate to higher ground.

How to Stay Safe During a Coastal Flood

If you are caught in a coastal flood, it is important to take the following steps:

• Stay out of floodwaters: Floodwaters can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, and other hazards.
• Do not drive through floodwaters: Even a few inches of water can damage your car or cause it to stall.
• Seek higher ground: If you are in an area that is flooding, move to higher ground immediately.
• Call 911 if you need assistance: If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to coastal flooding, there are several common mistakes that people often make. These include:

• Ignoring warnings: Do not ignore coastal flood advisories or warnings. Flooding can happen quickly and without warning.
• Underestimating the power of floodwaters: Floodwaters can be extremely powerful and can easily sweep people away.
• Driving through floodwaters: Never drive through floodwaters. Even a few inches of water can damage your car or cause it to stall.
• Going outside during a flood: Do not go outside during a flood. There may be downed power lines, debris, and other hazards.

How to Prepare for a Coastal Flood

There are a number of steps you can take to prepare for a coastal flood, including:

• Elevate your home: If your home is in a low-lying area, consider elevating it to protect it from flooding.
• Build a seawall or levee: A seawall or levee can help to prevent flooding from entering your property.
• Install flood vents: Flood vents can help to reduce the damage caused by flooding by allowing water to flow through your home.
• Develop an emergency plan: Having an emergency plan in place can help you to respond quickly and effectively to a coastal flood.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you stay safe during a coastal flood:

• Stay informed: Monitor weather forecasts and advisories regularly.
• Have a plan: Know where you will go if you need to evacuate.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Include items such as food, water, first aid, and medications.
• Elevate valuables: Move valuables and important documents to higher levels.
• Stay out of floodwaters: Do not drive through or walk through floodwaters.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Watch for downed power lines, debris, and other hazards.

Conclusion

Coastal flooding can be a serious hazard, but by taking the necessary precautions, you can help to protect yourself, your family, and your property. Remember to monitor weather conditions, have an emergency plan in place, and stay safe during a coastal flood.

Additional Information

• National Weather Service: Coastal Flood Advisory
• Federal Emergency Management Agency: Coastal Flooding
• American Red Cross: Coastal Flooding

Tables

Table 1: Impacts of Coastal Flooding

Table 2: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Table 3: Tips and Tricks