Take Control in 1,2,3 and Be Informed about Spring Flooding

1. Know when flooding may occur. Sign up for alerts.

• Spring is a highly turbulent season that poses a multitude of weather and flooding threats to the Mid-Atlantic.
▪ Late-season winter storms and nor’easters can unexpectedly crush any signs of spring with dangerous winter conditions and coastal flooding.
▪ Major flooding along rivers, streams and creeks can also occur in the spring as a result of warmer temperatures and rainfall interacting with snowpack and river ice.
▪ Warm, humid weather also means an increased threat of tornadoes, severe thunderstorms with lightning, damaging winds, and large hail. In addition, heavy rainfall could cause flash flooding.
• Dangerous weather can happen anyplace and anytime. Dangerous weather includes hazardous conditions such as torrential rain, lightning, damaging straight-line winds, tornadoes, large hail, and flash flooding. No matter where you live, work, or travel you should take steps to prepare.
• Preparing includes making sure you have access to several ways to receive weather and emergency alerts. Download the FEMA app to receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area.

2. Know what to do. Practice protective measures.

• Flash flooding can develop in just minutes. If a flash flood warning is issued, it means a flash flood is imminent or occurring and you should take action. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground.
• Turn Around Don’t Drown: Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters.
▪ Many flood deaths occur from cars being swept downstream. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
▪ Many of the flood-related drownings are preventable. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road; the road may have collapsed under the flood water.
▪ People underestimate the force and power of water It is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult.
• Evacuate immediately, if told to evacuate. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.

3. Know you’re protected. Talk to your insurance agent.

• Purchase Flood Insurance: A flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is your best protection against flood-related loss.
▪ Floods are the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States. Just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage.
▪ Most homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage.
▪ Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, the contents in a building, or both, so it is important to protect your most important financial assets — your home, your business, your possessions.