Flood Awareness & Safety Guide
A reference guide to use before, during and after a flood
Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway, and an extensive network of canals, which contribute to the city’s unique beauty — and its vulnerability to flooding.
Stay Connected
Report Flooding
To report flooding that is blocking access or damaging property:
Know the Flood Alerts
Flood Advisory
Be aware: Some flooding is possible. It could make travel harder or cause minor problems nearby.
Flood Watch
Be prepared: Flooding might happen soon. Pay attention to the news and get ready just in case.
Flood Warning
Take action: Flooding is happening or will happen very soon. Protect yourself and your home.
Flash Flood Warning
Move now: Fast, dangerous flooding is happening. Go to higher ground right away.
Flash Flood Emergency
This is very serious: Flooding could be life-threatening. Get to safety immediately and do not drive through flooded areas.
FREE Sandbags for Residents
The City of Fort Lauderdale is here to help you prepare for the rainy and hurricane seasons. Sandbags will be available for residents at the following locations:
Distribution Sites:
- George English Park (1101 Bayview Dr.)
- Holiday Park (1150 G. Harold Martin Dr.)
- Mills Pond Park (2201 NW 9th Ave.)
- Floyd Hull/Morton Center (2800 SW 8th Ave.)
- Riverland Park (950 SW 27th Ave.)
- Free Resident Sandbag Flyer With Maps
Distribution Details:
- First Saturday and Sunday of each month
- May through November
- May 3-4 | June 7-8 | July 5-6 | August 2-3 | September 6-7 | October 4-5 | November 1-2
- 10AM - 1PM
- Fort Lauderdale residents only (proof of residency required)
- While supplies last
Sandbag Usage and Disposal Guidelines:
- Reuse: Only dry, uncontaminated sandbags are suitable for reuse.
- Disposal: Sandbags exposed to floodwaters should be considered contaminated and must be disposed of properly. Place them in your bulk pile for collection as part of your regularly scheduled bulk pickup.
- Important: Never dispose of sand in drains, streets, or on beaches.
Storm Drains
Help prevent neighborhood flooding.
Our Public Works team regularly clears storm drains, but residents can help too:
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Clear palm fronds, leaves, and debris from nearby drains using gloves, a broom, or a shovel.
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Dispose of debris in your green waste bin or take it to a designated City drop-off site.
Yard waste must not be left near drains or in streets. Landscapers must use approved disposal sites.
Vehicle Safety During Flooding
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Avoid driving through floodwaters — just 6 inches of water can cause loss of control.
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Drive slowly to prevent creating waves that push water into homes.
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Do not use hazard lights while driving — only use them when stopped.
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Rinse the underside of your car after driving through saltwater or flood zones to prevent corrosion.
Protect Your Property
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Make sure your home or business has flood insurance — it's strongly recommended for all properties.
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Reduce your flood risk by elevating appliances, using flood-resistant materials, and maintaining proper drainage.