Severe Weather Awareness Week: Day 5 - Flash Flooding

Today brings an end to Severe Weather Awareness week. Hopefully you have taken some time to come up with a severe weather plan, or even buy a weather radio. If not, please do this. More severe weather is expected on Sunday.

When we think of severe weather, we often think of strong winds and tornadoes, maybe even hail. However, one of the biggest threats and the number one severe weather killer is actually flash flooding. From 1980-2009, an average of 93 people were killed each year due to flooding.

What is flash flooding? Flash flooding is when there is a fast rise of water due to slow moving heavy storms. Flash flooding can also happen when rain or storms move over the same areas in a short period of time. This is called storm training. Flash flooding can occur in a "flash" and without warning. The intensity of the rain and duration of rainfall are the biggest factors that contribute to flash flooding.

Few people realize the force behind moving water. Moving water can have enough power to push just about anything out of its path and it can be especially deceptive to drivers. Driving into flood waters can stall your vehicle as the water is often deeper than you think. It is also possible that the ground has been washed away. If either of these situations happen, you and your vehicle could be swept away, possibly being seriously injured or killed. A good rule to remember is "turn around don't drown."

An example of what NOT to do during flooding events.

Meteorologists at the National Weather Service will issue a Flash Flood Watch when heavy rains are expected to produce flash flooding. A watch may be issued a day in advance of the event. A Flash Flood Warning means that flash flooding is occurring right now or is imminent. When a warning is issued, this is the time to move to higher ground, especially if you live near a river, creek, stream, etc.

Keep in mind that non-severe thunderstorms can produce flash flooding. If you are driving during a thunderstorm, you will want to watch for flooding in areas like highway dips, bridges, and other low areas. Be especially careful at night when it is even harder to recognize flood dangers. One should also be careful while camping during heavy rains. Do not cross fast flowing streams where the water is more than a 2-3 inches high.

Other types of flooding such as river flooding can be just as dangerous. In these situations, the water won't rise as fast as in a flash flooding event, but the same rules apply when it comes to protecting your life.

Finally, keep in mind most home owners insurance polices do not include coverage for water damage caused by flooding. For more information on this, please click here.

Eric - elaw@wlbt.com