How To Stay Safe Before, During And After A Flood

Flash floods can be deadly and damaging surges of water that occur quickly, with rapid rises in streams, creeks, rivers, or urban areas.

Over the past 30 years, floods have been the nation's biggest storm-related killer. Floods are second only to heat when looking at all weather-related deaths.

Here are some tips to keep you safe before, during and after a flash flood. Much of this involves having a plan, awareness of the forecast, the ability to receive watches and warnings, and acting quickly.

Before A Flood

- While any area where extreme rainfall occurs can flood, find out if you live in a floodplain or other area more susceptible to flooding through FEMA's flood maps. You could also ask people who have lived in your area for a while whether and how often flooding previously occurred.

- If you're camping or hiking, be aware of the potential for flash flooding, even in normally placid creeks, streams and rivers and especially in higher terrain.

- In either of these situations, figure out how to leave your area quickly in case of a flash flood. If camping or hiking, that may require you to climb higher, and not necessarily on marked trails.

- Make sure you have multiple ways of receiving National Weather Service flood watches and warnings, including from your smartphone, NOAA weather radio, or from local media.

During A Flood

- If your area is in a flood watch, know that flooding could occur any time the watch is in effect. Monitor closely for any National Weather Service flood or flash flood warnings.

- When a warning is issued, avoid unnecessary travel unless an evacuation is needed.

- Never drive through flooded roads or around barriers put up in front of a section of road closed from flooding. Moving water can float and carry away a vehicle, trapping you inside.

- If a flash flood emergency is issued for your area, move to higher ground immediately.

- Stay out of flood water. Only 6 inches of flowing water can knock you down.

After A Flood

- Wait for the all clear from local authorities before entering an area previously or still flooded.

- Avoid exposure to any lingering flood water. It could also contain chemicals and toxins, live wires, snakes, insects and could mask sharp objects or other debris that could lead to injury.

- You may have to boil water for some time. Check with your local water authority.

- Never use a portable generator inside your home or garage, due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Jonathan Erdman is a senior meteorologist at weather.com and has been covering national and international weather since 1996. Extreme and bizarre weather are his favorite topics. Reach out to him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.