Flash Flood Disaster Prevention
If you live in an area that experiences flash flooding, knowing how to prepare and respond could save your life. These natural disasters come on suddenly and at any time, leaving little to no time to make an emergency plan and gather supplies before evacuating to safety.
Understanding the risks of flash flooding ahead of time, having a plan in place, and having an emergency supply kit ready to go will keep your family safe if your area is hit. Here’s what to know to prevent significant damage to your home and protect your loved ones in the face of flash flooding.
What Makes a Flash Flood Different From Regular Flooding?
Flash floods are the deadliest weather phenomenon in the US, killing more people each year than hurricanes, tornadoes, or lightning. Despite a much shorter duration than other floods, they account for the majority of flood-related deaths.
Their deadliness comes from the speed of onset, with floods developing in minutes to hours vs. days for regular floods. They also have little to no warning time. By the time emergency alerts come in, it may already be too late to evacuate.
Even a small amount of water poses a significant threat. Vehicles begin to float in just 12 inches of water, and moving water can knock adults off their feet with as little as six inches.
While the hope would be that flooding follows drainage routes, flash floods often take unpredictable paths that follow the terrain. In areas with more concrete, less water absorption creates constant runoff that can carry trees, cars, boulders, and more.
How to Prepare Before a Flash Flood Warning
To properly prepare for a flood, you’ll need to dedicate a few hours and consider investing in home and life-saving equipment.
1. Know Your Flood Risk
Know where your property is located on a flood map. Check FEMA to determine if your home is in a high, moderate, or low-risk zone. Low-lying areas, areas close to waterways, or areas with poor drainage may be at a greater risk.
2. Purchase Flood Insurance
Standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not include flood insurance, so you’ll need separate coverage. Flood insurance is often unavailable during the storm season, with 30-day waiting periods common to prevent homeowners from purchasing coverage right as a risk becomes known. Ensure you buy your flood plan well before the storm season begins each year and purchase coverage for both structures and contents.
3. Make a Disaster Plan
Write up a disaster plan and make it required reading for everyone in your household. It should include designated meeting points, a list of emergency contacts, strategies for family members to communicate or reconnect if separated, a pet evacuation plan, and a map with important locations marked. It should also include information on how to turn off utilities like water, gas, power, and home solar systems.
4. Practice Evacuation
Schedule drills for your household to practice your flash flood evacuation plan. Time your routes so you know how long it will take you to get through each escape path, practicing at different times of the day under various weather conditions.
5. Install Sump Pumps
Install sump pumps with battery-powered backup so they can maintain operation during outages. Test them regularly and clean the intake screens so they’re always ready to work.
6. Create an Emergency Supply Kit
Build a kit with at least 72 hours of essential supplies, including food, water, and family medications. Keep it in a waterproof storage container or something easy to transport.
7. Charge Essential Electronics
Keep your essential electronics charged and ready to go so you’ll always have power when disaster strikes. Consider using portable power banks like the EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh) for additional backup power as needed.
Flash Flood Emergency Supplies That Make a Difference
When packing your emergency kit, include the following items:
1. Backup Power for Devices
Don’t rely on your devices' internal batteries. They may not be charged when the flood strikes, so having backup power like a portable power station or home backup generator ensures you can run essential appliances and stay in communication during an emergency. Be sure to pack flashlights with extra batteries as well.
2. First-Aid Kit
Your first-aid kit should include:
Medical supplies in waterproof-sealed containers
Prescription medications for all family members in 7-day supplies
Wound care essentials like bandages and antiseptics
Emergency medications such as antihistamines and pain relievers
Medical information cards to remember all allergies, conditions, and emergency contacts
Sanitation and hygiene items like disinfectants, toothbrushes, and garbage bags
3. Food and Water
Pack a gallon of water per person daily, or bring water purification equipment like filters or tablets. The food should be non-perishable and prioritize protein, so think items like energy bars and dried fruits. If you pack canned goods, don’t forget the can opener.
4. Dry Clothing
Include complete outfit changes for each person with sturdy footwear and rain gear for additional protection. Consider warm layers, even in warm climates, as water increases hypothermia risk.
5. Personal Documents
Copy critical personal documents like IDs and insurance policies and place them in waterproof pockets, or carry digital copies on a USB drive.
8. Optional Extras
You may also want to bring extras such as pet supplies, entertainment items, comfort items (like stuffed animals or blankets), multi-tools, duct tape, and two-way radios for reliable communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Stay Safe During a Flash Flood?
The best way to stay safe during a flash flood is to move to higher ground and avoid moving water. Never drive on flooded roads or walk in moving water; even a few inches can knock you down or carry a car. Stay away from electrical equipment and listen for emergency broadcasts for updates or assistance.
Can I Use a Portable Power Station During a Flash Flood?
Yes, you can use a portable power station during a flash flood if the PPS and devices stay elevated above the water and dry. However, you should prioritize charging essential devices to conserve power.
What Should I Do if I Get Caught in a Flash Flood While Driving?
If the water is rising around your vehicle, abandon the car immediately and exit moving perpendicular to the direction the water is flowing. Get to the highest point, such as a rooftop, trees, or other elevated structures. Use noise or movement to signal for help and wait for professional rescue.
Emergency Kits Improve Family Safety
Flash floods are sudden and dangerous. They combine devastating power with minimal warning time, creating significant risk for anyone in a flood zone. Preparing before the emergency strikes is key to survival and safety. Know your risk beforehand, have your emergency supplies, like the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus Solar Generator (PV4220W), ready to go, and practice evacuating with your family. With practice, you’ll know what to do during these critical situations.