Transcript
- Unfortunately, many parts of our country know all too well the damage that flooding can cause. While flooding can occur almost anywhere, some states like Texas, Florida, and Louisiana, are particularly prone to flooding events that often result in damage to homes, businesses, and local utilities and services. With the sudden damage that rising flood waters can cause, it's important to understand the warning signs and to evacuate early. Our recommendation is to always err on the side of caution when flood waters are concerned. If there is any concern that your area may experience flooding, and you have somewhere else to go, it's always better to do so. But often homeowners and residents may not recognize the warning signs or fully understand what flood warnings mean. Here are answers to the most common questions. What are common warning signs of flooding? Flood waters can rise incredibly quickly, potentially trapping residents in their homes as roads are closed off or neighborhoods become inaccessible. Here are some things to watch for: Rising water levels. Many residential areas are actually downhill from levies and bodies of water, such as rivers and streams. This means that when the water crests above flood stage, it quickly floods nearby neighborhoods. If water levels get anywhere near flood stage or authorities recommend evacuation, it is always recommended to leave your home immediately. Water that becomes muddier in a short period of time. As the waters rise, they will erode more soil from the banks, which can result in a noticeably muddier appearance. This may be a sign that soil upstream that isn't often wet now is, and can be an indicator of rising waters to come. Water that's carrying twigs, sticks, and other debris. As with the water becoming muddier, it may also begin to pick up twigs, sticks, and other debris. This is an indicator that waters are continuing to rise. What do flood warnings mean? Homeowners and residents can be easily confused by the meaning of various flood warnings. Here are the most common and what they mean to you. Flood Watch or flood Alert. These are intended to warn the public that conditions are right for flooding, but that flooding is not imminent or certain. Take heed of flood watches in your area, as well as nearby areas, as they can change as the conditions change. Flood Warning. This is an urgent warning that flooding of homes and businesses is very likely and that residents should take immediate action to ensure that they and their families are safe. Severe Flood Warning. An urgent warning for residents that significant flooding is expected and may present serious danger to life. Residents should get to a safe place and follow instructions for emergency personnel. Flash Flood Warning. In cases where sudden flooding is expected, a flash flood warning will be issued to the area of concern. Flash flood warnings are generally issued for large areas as they're most often caused by heavy rains, so it's important for residents to watch their local conditions and act accordingly to stay safe. Small Stream Advisory. Streams can overflow too, and while they generally result in a much smaller affected area, they can result in water damage and flooding of nearby homes and businesses. A small stream advisory will often follow heavy rains and is essentially an alert that streams may overflow and flood. As a result, keep an eye on nearby streams and take appropriate action should the water level near its banks. While we hope that you're never impacted by flooding, we hope we've been able to answer some of your questions and that your family stays safe should flooding ever occur. As always, should you have questions about flooding, please don't hesitate to contact your local Disaster Blaster. Would you like to take control of your future and build a business you can be proud of? We can help. As a Disaster Blaster Franchise Partner, our industry experts will help you unlock the potential of the $210 billion restoration industry. Disaster Blaster offers the most revenue streams in the restoration industry, training and support from industry experts, a unique model primed for your success, and more! Call our franchise team today to learn more at 242-1042 or visit us on the web at www.DisasterBlasterFranchise.com.