Understanding the Dangers of Flash Floods During and After Storms | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mills/Oak Hill

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

When a flash flood hits, take these steps to be prepared.

While severe thunderstorms present dangers in their own right, they are not the most dangerous weather event that is possible in relation to heavy rain. Many people are surprised to learn that floods kill more people in the United States than tornadoes, hurricanes or lightning, and that flash floods are the most dangerous type of flood of all. 

Flash floods are not only destructive, but they can come about quickly—and because many people do not understand their dangers, they are often not taken as seriously as they should be. Fortunately, by understanding the dangers and the warnings surrounding flash floods, you can more easily stay safe from them in the future. 

Know the Alerts Surrounding Flash Floods 

To begin to increase your safety from flash floods, knowing the meanings of the various weather alerts is a great first step. A Flash Flood Watch is when you should make sure you are ready to execute your evacuation plan if necessary, as conditions are favorable for a flash flood. A Flash Flood Warning means that a flash flood is currently happening or will be happening soon, and a Flash Flood Emergency is the most severe alert, meaning that a severe flash flood is happening in the area. 

Have a Plan in Place for Flash Floods 

Because flash floods come about so quickly, it is important to have a plan ahead of time so you can react immediately in the event that an evacuation notice is issued. Make sure you have an evacuation supply bag, are aware of evacuation routes and know where to go should a flash flood occur. 

It is important to note that you should never attempt to drive through floodwaters—if your preferred route is blocked, turn around and find another avenue instead. You should also never walk through floodwaters, as moving water can quickly sweep even fully grown adults off their feet. 

If your home is damaged due to a storm or a flood, we are here to help you with the restoration process from start to finish. You can get in touch with us at any time of the day or night to learn more or to report damage for a quick response from our team.