Emergency Guide Flood


Table of Contents

Part II: Natural Disasters and Public Emergencies

Flood

The National Weather Service classifies floods as follows:

Flood Watch

  • Flooding is possible
  • Monitor local broadcast media for emergency information
Flash Flood Watch
  • Flash flooding is possible
  • Be prepared to move to higher ground
  • Monitor local broadcast media for emergency information and instructions
Flood Warning
  • Flooding is occurring or will soon occur
  • If advised to evacuate, do so immediately
  • Monitor local broadcast media for emergency information and instructions
Flash Flood Warning
  • A flash flood is occurring
  • Seek higher ground on foot immediately
The Power of Moving Water
Having shaped much of the earth's surface, water is one of nature's most powerful forces.
  • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and stalling
  • One foot of water will float many vehicles
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pick-up trucks
During a Flood
  • Monitor local broadcast media for emergency information and instructions
  • Monitor the Nation Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio or access the NOAA Website at http://www.noaa.gov/
  • Do not drive into flooded areas
  • If floodwaters rise around a vehicle, abandon it and move to higher ground to avoid being swept away with the vehicle
Additional information on Floods is available on the following website: The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration http://www.noaa.gov/
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