Floods occur nationwide and are the deadliest weather-related killer in the United States. According to the 30-year average, flash and river floods result in 99 fatalities each year. Because all flooding can be life-threatening, it is vital to understand the risks and be prepared to take quick action.
Gwinnett County
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Floods: Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Flooding is caused by various phenomena, including tropical cyclones, thunderstorms, snowmelt, and dam failures.
- Flash Flooding: A rapid and extreme flow of high water into a normally dry area. It commonly occurs within six hours of heavy rain but can happen in minutes if a levee fails.
- River Flooding: Severity is categorized by the National Weather Service (NWS) as Minor, Moderate, or Major based on property damage and public threat.
- Coastal Flooding: Driven by storm surges during tropical cyclones. This rise in ocean levels is often the greatest threat to life during hurricanes.
- Inland Flooding: Caused by tropical cyclones that stall or move slowly, dropping massive amounts of rain hundreds of miles from the coast.
People underestimate the power of water.
Many drownings occur in automobiles swept downstream.
- Don't Drive Through Water: You cannot tell the depth of the water or the condition of the road underneath.
- Abandon Stalled Cars: If your vehicle is caught in rising water, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
- Respect Barricades: They are there for your safety. Never drive around them.
Knowing these terms can save your life. Use the table below to understand the level of urgency:
| Term | Meaning | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Flood Watch | Conditions are favorable for flooding. | Prepare: Monitor news and be ready to move. |
| Flood Warning | Flooding is occurring or imminent. | Act: Take safety precautions immediately. |
| Flash Flood Watch | Flash flooding is possible. | Stay Alert: Be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice. |
| Flash Flood Warning | A flash flood is occurring or very soon. | Evacuate: Move to higher ground immediately. |
Assemble a disaster supplies kit
- First aid kit & medications
- Canned food & can opener
- 3 gallons of water per person per day
- Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags
- Battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries
- Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
- Instructions on turning off electricity, gas, and water (restoring gas requires a professional)