When spring hits, whether it’s “official” or it just feels like spring, many of us are eager to get out of the house or office and into the fresh air. Although living in the foothills most of us don't think about flooding, if your property has low-lying areas or you frequently drive through areas that are prone to flash flooding during heavy downpours, when the rainy season hits you'll need to take heed of the safety tips from FEMA.
Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. Here are some things to keep in mind as the spring flood season draws near.
- Never drive or walk through flooded streets. It only takes six inches of moving water to sweep a person off their feet (and not in the romantic way) and 12 inches to move a car. Remember, if a street is flooded, Turn Around; Don’t Drown.
- Floods are expensive. A few inches of water in a 1,000-square foot home could cost more than $10,000 in repairs and replacement of personal possessions. Visits FEMA’s data visualization website to learn more about the costs and impacts of floods in your state.
- Most insurance does not cover flood damage. Only flood insurance will cover the damage from floods. Speak with your insurance agent to learn more and remember flood insurance takes 30 days to take effect, so purchase now to protect your family!
- Talk with your family and make an emergency plan for you and your pets. No matter the disaster, it’s always a good idea to have emergency supplies ready at home, at work, and in the car.
You can learn more about the dangers of flooding and find information about flood insurance at Ready.gov/floods and Floodsmart.gov. We also have prepared a Flood Safety Social Media Toolkit so you can share tips with your friends and family prepare at: https://www.ready.gov/floods
Spring brings severe weather. The change from Winter to Spring brings rain storms, high winds, and the possibility of hail storms. Hail can be damaging and even life-threatening if you are caught out in a hail storm. Hail can range in size from a small pea to the size of a softball. If you're outside, even driving when a barrage of hail begins falling, seek shelter immediately! If possible, get out from the path of falling hail. If in your car and you cannot seek shelter, pull to the side of the road and turn away from windows. Be aware of sunroofs and close the sold barrier between yourself and the glass.
For more information on Hail go to: https://www.weather.gov/cae/hail.html
The old adage, April showers bring May flowers is true, however, they can also bring damaging storms. Thunderstorms can be exciting and even breathtaking, but they can also be deadly! Lightning and high winds associated with spring storms can occur suddenly. If you hear thunder or see lightning seek shelter immediately if outside. Even if it seems to be far away, if you can hear thunder or see flashes of lightning, you're in danger.
For more information on Lightning Safety go to:www.weather.gov/lightning
Be aware of your surroundings, check weather forecasts for the areas you plan to walk, hike, bike, or play and enjoy the beautiful weather that we will soon be enjoying. Be prepared in the event of severe weather and stay safe!
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