Flooding

Be aware of flood hazards

No matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water, behind a levee, or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood. Major storms or water main breaks can cause flooding.

Here are some tips:

• Listen for information from media, public safety, or Facilities Management.
• Move vital records, equipment, and hazardous materials to higher ground.
• Move personnel to a safe area and assist those with disabilities.

Do not walk or drive through moving water.

• Six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult.
• Two feet of water can carry most vehicles away. Remember, turn around, don’t drown!

The National Weather Service could issue the following for flooding:

Flash Flood Warning:

• Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring.
• If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground.
• A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop.
• It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Flood Warning:

• Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening.
• A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood Watch:

Be Prepared:

• A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur.
• A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding.
• It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Advisory:

Be Aware:

• A Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance.
• A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning.
• However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.