What to Do When a Flash Flood Warning is Issued?

A flash flood warning is a severe message posted by the meteorological departments and one that can easily prevent losses if observed. They are floods which are fast, short duration; may be due to rainfall, thawing of snow or breaking of a dam. It is important to know what a flash flood warning entails; how you are going to prepare for it as well as what is expect of you after the warning.

What is it like to experience a Flash Flood Warning?

Flash flood warning can be describe as the warning that is given whenever a flash flood is predict, or is imminent. This is unlike the flash flood watch notation that is give to an area meaning that it will flood but this is not certain. A warning in this case means that action should be take immediately. Flash floods are capable of developing in minutes or hours of intense rainfall and may be extremely swift, carrying with them all sorts of objects.

The usual tools for weather services in issuing these warnings include radar and rain gauges and other similar equipment. TV, Radio, Smartphones and weather applications are the most common means by which warnings are pass. Flash flood warnings are highly important more in the urban areas because of the problem in controlling water especially in the drainage system.

Causes of Flash Flooding

This is due to the fact, that flash floods are related to various kinds of natural occurrences, which link to severe weather conditions.

1. Heavy Rainfall: This is maybe consider the most frequent cause of the flash floods occurrence. If the rain falls beyond the surface infiltration capacity then it leads to surface runoff and this exercises much more pressure on the rivers, steam, and drainages.
2. Tropical Storms and Hurricanes: These weather aids in the delivery of a big volume of rainfall in a short span and leads to flash floods within the coastal area and the interior part of the country.
3. Dam or Levee Failures: Flash floods occur when built structures such as dams or levees open or fail, and water becomes trap, large amounts are release at once.
4. Rapid Snowmelt: In cold areas, by the increased levels of temperatures one finds that snow melts very quickly into flood levels for the earth or rivers to deal with.

It is for this reason that when you are issue a flash flood warning the best thing to do is act as fast as you can and make the right decision.

1. Stay Informed: Follow the local TV channels, radio, weather alarms and apps for real-time information. Be also notify with the updates, as flash flood conditions are often change quickly.
2. Evacuation Plans: Should you be in a flood zone, ensure that you and your family can leave at a short notice. Identify where one can safely go during floods; they should avoid areas with flood risk.
3. Emergency Kits: Keep an emergency stock ready with food, water, medicines, torches and batteries etc. This should be put where it can be quickly grab should there be a need to leave in a hurry.
4. Secure Your Property: In case one has ample time, one should pack essential items and transfer them to areas with least water, and switch off electrical devices. In case there is anticipate flooding try and barricade around doors using sandbags, to help avoid waterlogging in your premises.

Even after the flash flood threat is over, the event may not be quench or over with just yet.

1. Stay Out of Floodwater: It is also very pertinent to mention here that flash floods may contained objects such as large debris, chemical materials or even others. Do not walk through or drive a vehicle in water filled areas.
2. Check for Structural Damage: Never return to your home if it has flooded; you must first ensure there are no signs of damage. Read electrical wires and circuits carefully; Try not to approach electrical systems, or if you find some signs of damage, report to relevant experts in order to determine the safety of your premises.
3. Contact Authorities: If they are very damage, then, it is advise that such buildings should be of concern to the local authorities. There may be agencies for the recovery like disaster recovery agencies and bodies or governmental agencies.

Conclusion

That is why one has got to be extremely serious when receiving a flash flood warning. This means that there is possibility of death and some form of response must be made at that time. This, in turn, will help you reduce the threats to you personally and to your near and dear once’s safety as well as provide you with useful recommendations about what to do before and after a flood.