• Stay away from flood-prone areas, including dips, low spots, valleys, ditches, washes.
• If the waters start to rise in your home, retreat to the second floor, the attic and if necessary, the roof.
  • Take dry clothing, a flashlight and a portable radio with you.
  • Then wait for help.

Avoid Flooded Areas

• Avoid flooded areas or those with rapid water flow.
• Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream.
• It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet.

Keep Children Safe

• Don't allow children to play near high water, storm drains or ditches.

Beware of Flooded Roads

• NEVER drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads.
• If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
• Water only two feet deep can float away most automobiles.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams or washes.
• Be cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Flood Terms

• Flood Watch
  • Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated WATCH area. Be alert.
• Flood Warning
  • Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent. Take necessary precautions at once.
• Stream Advisory
  • Flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring.
• Flood Statement
  • Follow-up information regarding a flash flood/flood event

Flood Facts

• Flooding is usually divided into two categories: flash flooding and river flooding. Both can cause death, injury and property destruction.
• Flash floods are usually caused by slow-moving thunderstorms or thunderstorms that move over the same area one after the other.
• The majority of deaths from flooding occur when people become trapped in automobiles that stall while driving through flooded areas.
• Nearly half of all flood fatalities are vehicle-related.
• Flash floods usually occur within six hours of heavy rainfall.
• Flash floods occur with little or no warning.
• They can sweep away cars and trucks and destroy buildings and bridges.
• Rapidly rising water can reach heights of 30 feet or more.
• Most flood deaths are due to flash floods