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Flash Floods and Floods...The Awesome Power

 What to Listen For | Take Action!

TAKE ACTION!

When a flash flood WATCH is issued - Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice. 

When a flash flood WARNING is issued for your area, or the moment you realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. You may have only SECONDS!

       Go to higher ground - climb to safety!
  • Go out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. o Avoid already flooded and high velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
  • If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways!

  • If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead!
  • Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

  • Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.

    When you receive a FLOOD WARNING:
  • If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
  • Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
  • Continue monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, television or emergency broadcast station for information.

     During the flood:
  • Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
  • If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
  • Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water and you could be stranded or trapped.
  • Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, arroyos.

    After the flood:
  • If fresh food has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out.
  • Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority.
  • Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter and First Aid are available from the Red Cross.
  • Do not visit disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
  • Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
  • Use flashlights, not lanterns, torches or matches, to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.
  • Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities

 

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