How to Prepare for a Flash Flood?

What is Flash Flood?

A flash flood is a natural disaster caused by a sudden and rapid flooding that occurs after intense rainfall or snowmelt. Low-lying areas like valleys, river- beds, canyons, and regions with poor drainage are often prone to Flash-flooding.

Flash floods are very dangerous due to their high speed and flow of the water. They sweep away everything that comes their way- Infrastructures and lives. It carries rocks and mud, which can cause damage to property and loss of lives. It causes severe damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings, resulting in economic losses.

What Causes Flash Floods?

Various factors, including intense rainfall, rapid snowmelt, dam or levee failures, and sudden flows of wreckage causes flash floods. The following below are some of the primary causes of flash floods:

1. Intense rainfall

 Intense rainfall  can commonly cause flash floods. When the soil is saturated, rainwater cannot be absorbed into the ground. It flows rapidly into rivers, streams, and other waterways, causing flash floods.

2. Rapid snowmelt

 Rapid snowmelt is another common cause of flash floods. When temperatures rise suddenly, snow can melt rapidly, causing a sudden increase in water runoff and flash floods. 

3. Dam or levee failures

 Dam and levee failures can cause flash floods downstream of the structures. These structures are designed to hold back water, and when they fail, they release large volumes of water into downstream areas, causing flash floods.

4. Sudden debris flows

Sudden debris flows can occur when large amounts of debris, such as rocks, soil, and vegetation, are dislodged by rainfall, landslides, or volcanic eruptions. These debris flows can quickly accumulate and cause flash floods downstream.

5. Ice dam failures

 Ice dams can form on rivers and streams during the winter months, and when they fail, they can release large volumes of water downstream, causing flash floods.

Why are urban areas susceptible to flash floods?

Urban areas are prone to flash floods due to the high percentage of resistant surfaces, urbanization of natural drainage systems, human activities, and climate change.

It's essential for urban planners, policymakers, and individuals to take effective measures to minimize the risks of flash flooding in urban areas by improving water management systems, preserving and restoring natural drainage systems, and reducing impervious surfaces.

Following are the reasons why urban areas are susceptible to flash floods due to several reasons:

Impervious/ Resistant surfaces

 Urban areas have a high percentage of impervious surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, and buildings, which prevent water from being absorbed underground. Instead, the water flows rapidly into storm drains, which can quickly become overwhelmed during heavy rainfall, leading to flash flooding.

Urbanization of natural drainage systems

Urban development often involves channelizing and paving over natural drainage systems such as streams and rivers, which can exacerbate flooding during heavy rainfall events. The loss of natural vegetation and the increased surface runoff can increase the speed and volume of floodwaters, leading to more severe flooding.

Human activities

 Urban areas often have a high concentration of human activities, such as industrial and commercial operations, construction activities, and vehicle traffic, which can contribute to flash floods. These activities can increase the amount of runoff and debris, clog storm drains, and disrupt natural drainage systems, leading to flash flooding.

Climate change

 Climate change  can cause  irregular and  intense  rainfall events that can lead to flash floods. The increase in temperature causes more evaporation that results in formation of low-pressure in the air, leading to more frequent and intense rainfall events.

Tips to stay safe during flash floods

Before Flash Flood Warning

Flash floods can be very dangerous and it's important to take necessary precautions to stay safe. 

• Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather reports and warnings, and be aware of flood-prone areas in your region.
• Practice your emergency plan regularly: Make sure you have a family emergency plan that you practice with each other. Make sure everyone knows how to get to higher ground if necessary.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Have an emergency kit ready with items such as water, Freeze Dried Food, Portable power equipment, a flashlight, a radio, and some flood control solutions
• Protect your home: If you live in a Flash Flood-prone area, take steps to protect your home, such as installing flood control solutions like Quick Dam or elevating your home.

• Be prepared to evacuate: If authorities issue an evacuation order, be ready to leave immediately. Follow the designated evacuation route, and don't drive through floodwaters.
• A waterproof container is the best way to keep important documents safe, such as passports, insurance papers, and medical records.
• Stay away from flood-prone areas

During Flash Flood Watch

• Stay informed: Stay tuned to local news or weather reports for updates on the flood conditions in your area.
• Evacuate immediately: If you're in an area that is prone to flooding or if you're told to evacuate, don't wait, leave immediately. Don't try to drive through flooded areas, always use a rescue boat and sea eagle is having the best rescue boats to help you in such situations.

• Move to higher ground: If you can't evacuate, move to higher ground as quickly as possible. Avoid low-lying areas, rivers, and streams.
• Avoid walking or driving through floodwater: Floodwaters can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear, and can carry debris or pollutants. Even a small amount of water can sweep a person or a vehicle away. It's best to stay away from flooded areas until the water has receded.
• Stay away from electrical equipment: If you're in a flooded area, stay away from electrical equipment, especially if it's submerged in water. Turn off the power to your home or business if you can do so safely.
• Be prepared: Have an emergency kit that includes Freeze Dried Food, water, and a first aid kit. Keep important documents, like passports and insurance policies, in a waterproof container.
• Listen to authorities: Follow the instructions of emergency personnel and local authorities, as they will have the most up-to-date information on the flood conditions and the best advice on how to stay safe.

 After a Flash Flood Emergency

• Listen to analysis and news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the power company.
• Return home only when the authorities indicate it is safe.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly to the foundations.
• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewer systems are serious health hazards.
• It is imperative to clean and disinfect everything that got wet. As a result of flooding, sewage, and chemicals may be left behind in the mud.

Flash floods pose a threat to life and livelihood. Being prepared is crucial to remain safe during a flash flood disaster. Analyze the risk of calamity in your area, build an emergency  first-aid kit, stay informed, evacuate the place if necessary, and protect your property. We hope that the steps we mentioned in this blog will help you to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency. Stay safe and be prepared!

How long does it take a flash flood to recede?

Flash floods can go down quickly if the area has a good drainage system. However, it may take days or even weeks for floodwaters to completely go down from low-lying areas with poor drainage. Duration of flash floods varies based on affected topography, and drainage capacity of the area.

What distinguishes flash floods from downstream floods?

The main differences between flash floods and downstream floods are their speed of onset, duration, and affected area. Flash floods are sudden, short-lived, and affect smaller areas, while downstream floods are gradual, long-lasting, and affect larger areas.

What to do in a flash flood while driving?

To stay safe while driving during a flash flood, remain calm, turn around if you see water on the road, seek higher ground if stuck, avoid driving on flooded bridges, and abandon your vehicle if the water level rises. Call for help and wait for assistance.