Flood Preparedness Tips

When it comes to natural disasters, floods take the top spot. In the U.S., they cause more fatalities and property damage annually than tornadoes, hurricanes, or lightning. Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predict widespread flooding through the spring of 2019.

Flooding is already affecting the upper Mississippi and Missouri river basins. As the Northern Hemisphere thaws out from winter, the melting snow and ice are intensifying the situation. So, get ready and prepare—because the best way to handle floods is through readiness.

Before a Flood

If flooding is a potential risk in your area, start preparing immediately.

Effective communication is critical. Under normal circumstances, you have several ways to stay connected with your loved ones. However, if major flooding causes damage to cell towers or disrupts landlines and the power grid, a backup plan is essential. Have a strategy for how to stay in touch, including a designated meeting spot in case evacuation becomes necessary. And don't forget to have a Plan B and Plan C.

Prepare an emergency kit. It might sound ironic, but when surrounded by water, having access to clean drinking water for at least three days will be essential. Likewise, stock up on food. Pack your emergency kit with canned items, since cooking might be impossible for a while. Consider what other supplies you'll need, including batteries, flashlights, blankets, rubber boots, and a first-aid kit. A battery-powered or wind-up radio is also crucial.

Amber Bradshaw, who survived the "thousand-year flood" of the Carolinas in the fall of 2018, offers helpful suggestions on her website for additional items to include, such as umbrellas, disposable plates and cutlery, a fire starter in a zip-close bag, some cash, and a traditional paper map. Be sure to pack basic items for yourself, your children, and your pets. In case of evacuation, having your essentials packed will save you the hassle of searching for them in a suitcase.

Prepare Your Home and Yourself

Do you need flood insurance? It's wise to start with that, as these policies can take up to a month to become active. This means, if a hurricane is approaching, it's too late to get coverage. (Insurance companies track the weather as well, so securing a policy while in the direct path of a storm is nearly impossible.)

However, you can have a plumber install check valves in your pipes to keep floodwaters from contaminating your water supply. Additionally, ensure your sump pump is functioning properly. If you have the time, consider placing sandbags around the foundation of your home as a precaution when you know a storm is coming.

Understand your flood risk. Do you live, work, or study in an area susceptible to flooding? If you're unsure, now is the time to find out and determine the safest route to higher ground. Signing up for notifications from The Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service is also a smart idea to stay informed about local flooding risks.

When a flood watch or warning is issued, make sure your cell phones, radios, computers, and any other crucial electronics are fully charged. If the power goes out, you'll need all the battery life you can get. Finally, if a flood is imminent in your area, evacuate immediately. Don't wait for an official order to leave.

In the Event of a Flood

It's important to be prepared, but what happens if a flash flood strikes unexpectedly before you can evacuate? The safest action is to move to higher ground, dial 911, and steer clear of any floodwaters. Avoid walking through the basement or any room where electrical outlets or extension cords are submerged. If you hear any crackling or popping sounds, evacuate immediately.

And remember, don't attempt to drive. Just 6 inches (15 centimeters) of swiftly moving water is enough to knock you off your feet. With 12 inches (30 centimeters), a car can be swept away. In fact, more than half of flash flood fatalities involve vehicles.

Even if your home has running water, assume it's tainted. (Don’t forget your emergency kit!) If you’ve evacuated, wait for the authorities to give the green light before returning. Your home’s structural integrity, electricity, and plumbing could all be compromised, and hazards like toxins and sharp debris might still be hidden under the remaining floodwater. During this time, patience is key. Stay put, let the waters subside, and allow professionals to assess the damage.

Don’t forget to contact your insurance agent. Most importantly, if your house is deemed safe but the power is out and you're using a generator, follow the instructions carefully and avoid running it indoors. Ignoring this crucial step is one of the leading causes of carbon monoxide poisoning, a top cause of post-disaster fatalities.