There is something magical about a summertime thunderstorm. Watching it roll in, listening to the thunder and counting the seconds in between is a favorite summertime activity.
Summer storms are typically caused by hot, humid weather, common in most of the United States. These storms can spawn heavy and intense downpours that can quickly lead to flash flooding. To make matters worse, recent summer storms have intensified due to global climate change, driving hotter temperatures, unpredictable storm strength and more widespread flooding.
Flash foods come out of nowhere. What starts as a small trickle of water in a local stream or creek can quickly become raging rapids. Knowing what to do in the event of a flash flood is key to your safety as well as your family and friends.
Below we’ve organized some tips for before, during and after a flash flood.
Before a flood
- Know your neighborhood. Research your proximity to streams, drainage channels, canyons or any other low-lying areas that might flood.
- Put together an evacuation plan and share it with everyone in your household. Know what paths and routes you can use to safely get to a high, dry place.
- Maintain an emergency kit with a three-day supply of food and water. Experts recommend canned or dried foods that don’t need to be cooked, and at least one gallon of water per day for each person and pet.
- If flooding hasn’t started, move important items to the upper floors of your house.
Never drive in flood waters.
During a flood
- Never wait for orders to leave. If you think a flood might be coming, evacuate immediately!
- Never walk through flood water, especially if it’s moving. Hazardous chemicals, sewage and even wild animals are often in floodwater. Just six inches of moving water can sweep you off your feet.
- If you must walk through water to escape, walk where the water is still (not churning).
- If water is quickly rising while you’re in your car, leave your vehicle and move to higher ground, like a hill or bridge.
- Never drive through a flooded roadway!
After a flood
- If you’ve evacuated your house, return only after you’re given the all-clear from officials.
- If you stay put, check your house for damage to electrical systems and appliances. Get rid of any food that might be contaminated by floodwater.
- Flooding can contaminate groundwater water and make you sick if ingested. Remember this when brushing your teeth, showering or drinking (shortly after a flood).
- Check your home for wild animals, especially snakes. They can get washed into your home with the floodwater.
Flash floods happen with minimal warning and are a serious safety threat. Whenever you know a storm is coming, leave any area that is near a stream, creek or is prone to flooding. It can be the difference between life and death. Stay safe this summer!