Severe Weather Information
Flash Flood Tips

From the Office of Emergency Management & Planning......
The Awesome Power of Flash Floods!

Flash flooding can occur within a few minutes or after hours of excessive rainfall. Most flash flooding is caused by slow-moving thunderstorms; thunderstorms repeatedly moving over the same area.

Flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy buildings, roads, and bridges. Streets can become rivers. Even six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet. A depth of 2 feet can float a car!

NEVER try to walk, swim or drive through swift water. Nearly half of all flood related fatalities are auto related; people trapped in their cars by rising water, or trying to drive through swift moving water.

If you come upon flood waters, STOP, TURN AROUND, and go another way. Be on the lookout for rapidly rising water at highway dips, bridges, and low areas.

You may not always have adequate warning that these dangerous flash floods are coming. If you live in a flood prone area, plan ahead. Identify where you can go if you need to evacuate. Plan a safe route away from low-lying areas. Most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flooding. Check with your insurance agent to see how to get federally sponsored flood insurance.

The rule for being safe in a flooding situation is simple: Head for higher ground and stay away from flood waters.