How Dangerous Flash Floods Can Be After Storms | SERVPRO of West Orange

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

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We may be the Sunshine State with great things like Disney World and Universal Studios but Florida can also be home to some severe weather events. 

Regardless of what type of severe weather events are taking place, all of them should be taken seriously with safety being a top priority. However, this is something that is especially true when flash floods are a possibility, because of how dangerous they are. Floods cause the second-highest rate of fatalities related to weather in the United States and flash floods are the most dangerous type of flood there is.

There is rarely much notice involved with a flash flood, leading to people being caught by surprise in areas that are not typically involved in any type of flood incident. Flash floods can turn any body of water or drain dangerous, and it is so important to keep track of safety tips that could save your life.

Defining a Flash Flood

There are several different types of floods, but what makes a flash flood so dangerous is how quickly it can come about. When heavy rainfall occurs, flash floods will happen in less than six hours after they begin, often happening closer to three. These conditions create a scenario where people are not given enough notice and have very little time to evacuate or get to higher ground.

The Alert Systems for Flash Floods

If there is severe weather, it is important to tune into your local weather broadcasts so you can be privy to all the alerts that are issued, especially if there is heavy rainfall.

A flash flood watch will be issued when conditions are right for a flash flood to begin, while a warning means that one is imminent and you should take action quickly. Flash flood emergencies are extremely rare, but those are quite deadly and you should always move to high ground as quickly as you can.

Safety Tips for Flash Flood Precautions

When it comes to a severe weather event, safety is always the top priority—and in a sudden severe weather event, it is best to have the top safety tips memorized so you can act quickly under pressure.

• Stay alert if rainfall is heavy and prolonged, and stay tuned to local weather updates.
• Create a full evacuation plan that everyone is aware of how to execute.
• Always avoid crossing flood water, both when you are walking or driving.
• Do not come into contact with floodwater if it can be at all avoided.
• Know several evacuation routes you can take in case water blocks one or more of them.

If your home or business has been damaged due to a flood or other severe weather, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damage to your property.

SERVPRO of West Orange services all cities in and around Orange County including, Windermere, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Bay Lake, Lake Buena Vista and many more.