Each year, flooding is the most widespread and costly weather-related natural disaster in the United States. Primarily caused by heavy or prolonged rain, dams or levees breaking, or the rapid melting of snow or ice, floods can leave a trail of extensive damage behind. They can wreak havoc on communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
Understanding flooding terminology is essential to protecting you and your home. For instance, a flood watch and a flood warning are two very different weather events.
What is a Flood Watch?
A flood watch is issued to inform the public that conditions are favorable for flooding. A flood watch indicates that flooding is a possibility within the next 24-48 hours. During a flood watch, it’s important to check flood action plans, stay informed of weather alerts and updates, and prepare to take necessary action if a warning is issued.
What is a Flood Warning?
According to The National Weather Service, “A flood or flash flood warning is issued to inform the public that flooding is imminent or in progress. It focuses on specific counties, communities, streams, or areas. Flash Flood Warnings are issued for flooding usually occurring within six hours of heavy rain.” The flood warning alert may include details on what areas and roads are blocked, evacuation procedures, and safety tips. During a flood warning, don’t hesitate. Be prepared to evacuate immediately.
Simply put:
WATCH = Flooding is possible.
WARNING = Flooding is happening now or will happen soon.
There are two more flood-related advisories:
- A Flood Advisory simply means that heavy rain is in the forecast and you may need to take action.
- A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a sudden, intense flood is happening or is imminent.
Paying close attention to weather alerts and acting upon them quickly will go a long way toward keeping you and your family safe when there’s a chance of flooding.
How to Prepare Before a Flood
The best time to prepare for a flood is well before it happens. Some floods develop slowly, but flash floods can occur within minutes or hours. These tips can help you prepare your home for flooding:- Remain alert by receiving warnings, advisories, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies.
- Research your property to find out if it is in a flood-prone or high-risk area.
- Make you have a plan on how to access higher ground quickly if necessary.
- Assemble a flood emergency kit.
How to Prepare for a Flood Watch
- Tune into the weather radio or local news station for updated reports.
- Stay on the lookout for fluctuating weather conditions and prepare to move to higher ground.
- Fasten outdoor objects to the ground or bring anything inside that could be damaged or swept away.
- To prevent damage, elevate any items stored in your basement.
- Follow instructions issued by public safety officials.
How to Prepare for a Flood Warning
- Immediately stay on or move to high ground.
- Check news media for emergency information and updates.
- Take immediate action if advised to evacuate and follow instructions from public safety officials.
- If necessary to evacuate your home, bring only essential items with you.
Safety Tips for Evacuating During a Flood
- Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you away. Don’t walk through moving water.
- “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” is an important phrase to remember. Don’t drive through flooded roads. A car can be swept away in just two feet of flowing water.
- Never drive around road barriers. Roads and bridges may be blocked off due to them being structurally unsound or washed out.
SERVPRO’s Water Damage Cleanup Service
SERVPRO® has devoted decades to commercial and residential cleanup, repair, and construction services. That’s why property owners know they can always trust SERVPRO. From everything from a flooded basement to a leaky appliance, our uniquely trained professionals have the tools and equipment to get the job done right. And we even navigate the insurance process for you to make your entire restoration experience smoother. Ahead of the storm, you can count on the SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team®. Our teams are strategically placed ahead of the storm so that we can move in to help when the storm passes. You can trust SERVPRO for the smallest, and the biggest, storm cleanup, repair, and restoration services.
SERVPRO is Here to Help®
When you’re faced with a flooding emergency, call SERVPRO. Each of our 2350 locations in the United States and Canada are always available to everyone. We answer the phone at any time of the day or night, and we offer everyone 24-hour emergency services.
Established in 1967, SERVPRO has become the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration*. Contact your local SERVPRO today for full-service cleanup, restoration, and construction services. After a flood, whether you require help with water damage cleanup, mold damage remediation, odor removal, document restoration, or more, SERVPRO franchises are Here to Help® and look forward to helping to restore your peace of mind and your property.
For more information, check out our Water Damage Resources.