Coastal and Interior Flooding
In the last 30 years, inland flooding has been responsible
for more than half the deaths associated with tropical
storms in the United States. Remember that flood
conditions can change rapidly and severe flooding
can develop in minutes. Flood water levels can be
much deeper than they appear. The depth of water
may be difficult to assess. Floodwater may carry
silt, raw sewage, oil or chemical waste, and therefore
sanitize anything that may come in contact with the
water before using the item.
Storm
Surge - storm surge is simply water
that is pushed toward the shore by the force
of the
winds swirling around the storm. While storm surge
is always a potential threat, more people have
died from inland flooding in the last 30 years.
Storm
Tide - the advancing storm surge combines
with the normal tides to create the storm tide
SLOSH
Model - is one tool used to evaluate the
threat from storm surge.
Wave and Current Action - associated with the
tide also causes extensive damage. Water weighs
approximately 1,700 pounds per cubic yard; extended
pounding by frequent waves can demolish any structure
not specifically designed to withstand such forces.
What can you do?
- When you hear hurricane, think inland flooding.
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Keep abreast of road conditions through the
news media.
- Move to a safe area before access is cut
off by floodwater.
- Do not attempt to cross flowing water.
As little as six inches of water
may cause you
to lose
control of your vehicle; two feet
of water will carry
most cars away.
- Develop a flood emergency action plan
with your community leaders.
- Obtain
Flood Insurance, if you think you need it.
- Determine whether you live in a potential
flood zone.
The
National Flood Insurance Program -
is a pre-disaster flood mitigation and insurance
protection program.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) makes
federally backed flood insurance available to
residents and business owners. National Flood Insurance
Program
call 1-888-CALL-FLOOD ext. 445 (TDD# 1-800-427-5593). |
