Tuscarawas County Homeland Security & Emergency Management Agency

Floods

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.

However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.

Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood. Every state is at risk from this hazard.

What is the flood risk where I live?

 

Be Prepared

Reduce Potential Flood Damage By

• Raising your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded
• Consult with a professional for further information if this and other damage reduction measures can be taken

Floods Can Take Several Hours to Days to Develop

• A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area
• A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area

Flash Floods Can Take Only a Few Minutes to a Few Hours to Develop

• A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area
• A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon

When a Flood WATCH is Issued

• Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home
• Fill your car’s gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued

When a Flood WARNING is Issued

• Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice

When a Flash Flood WARNING is Issued

• Or if you think it has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!
• Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades- they are there for your safety
• If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground

Prepare a Family Disaster Plan and a Disaster Supply Kit

 

Disaster and Preparedness Information

• This preparedness guide explains flood-related hazards and suggests life-saving actions you can take. With this information you can recognize a flood potential, develop a plan, and be ready when threatening weather approaches. Remember- your safety and your family’s safety is up to you!

   

  Floods- The Awesome Power
  

• This FEMA brochure gives you information on how to clean your home and what you need to do following a flood.

   

  Cleaning Up After a Flood
  

• This FEMA brochure gives you information on how to clean your home of mold, mildew, and bacteria that often occurs following a flood.

   

  Cleaning Mold, Mildew, and Bacteria
  

• This FEMA fact sheet gives the top 10 facts that every consumer needs to know about the National Flood Insurance Program.

   

  NFIP- Top 10 Facts
  

• This FEMA fact sheet information on protecing you home from flooding and about Sewer Backflow Valves.

   

  Protecting Your Property from Flooding
  

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