What is a flash flood?
A flood is when a large amount of water covers the ground. A flood can happen because of a heavy rain, because a creek, river or lake overflows, when ice and snow melts too quickly or when a dam breaks. A flood can occur nearly anywhere it can be just a few inches of water or the water can be very deep.
A flash flood is a flood that happens really quickly. The water in a flash flood moves very rapidly. Most often, a flash flood is caused by rain that falls faster than the rate of one inch per hour. A flash flood can occur in areas where it is not currently raining, since the floodwaters move rapidly downstream. Flash floods are most common in mountain stream areas and canyons, but they can happen in cities too.
Flash flood watches & warnings
A flash flood watch means it is possible for a flash flood to happen in a particular area. A flash flood warning means that a flash flood is either occurring or is about to happen. If you hear an alert about a flash flood watch, it is important to tell an adult and to stay tuned to the radio or television in case the watch is upgraded to a warning. In the event of a flash flood warning, tell an adult immediately and follow all of the advice for “what to do in a flash flood.” The alert will indicate the geographic areas that may be affected by the flash flood, so listen carefully to see if your neighborhood is included.
During a flash flood watch, it is a good idea to prepare in case conditions worsen. Alert other people about the watch, seek an appropriate location for shelter in case evacuation is necessary, move valuable items, important paperwork and pets to higher locations within your house.
What to do in a flash flood
In the event of a flash flood warning, it is important to act quickly in order to stay safe. Immediately tell an adult if you hear a flash flood warning has been issued or if you see water rising.
If your area is recommended for evacuation, listen carefully for instructions on safe places to go. Seek shelter in locations on high ground.
If you are outdoors, immediately seek shelter on the highest outdoor ground possible. Stay away from rivers, streams and ponds. Avoid storm drains since the areas around them often flood when the water cannot drain quickly enough. Do not walk through floodwater that is above your calves. Even water that is only knee deep can have swiftly moving currents and be life threatening.
If you are indoors, move to the highest place possible within the building. If you have time, take bottled water, a blanket, and snacks with you as well as a battery-powered radio so you can continue to monitor the flood conditions.
If you are in a car, remind the driver not to go over roads or bridges that are covered with water. It is very easy for cars to be washed away in floods. If the water is rising, do not try to drive through it; do not stay in the car. Leave the car and seek high ground as quickly as possible.
