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 (below) 
• 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 websites: 

Ready.gov

NOAA