Flooding

What's the difference between a flood and a flash flood?

• Flooding is a longer-term event that is caused by the inundation of a normally dry area caused by rising water in an existing waterway (river, stream, drainage ditch). 

• Flash flooding is caused by heavy rainfall over a short period of time. Flash flooding is caused by heavy rainfall over a short period of time. Flash floods are usually characterized by raging torrents after heavy rains that rip through riverbeds or urban streets. Flash flooding claims more lives world-wide annually than any other severe weather hazard. 

Flash Flood Watch 

• Issued to indicate current or developing hydrologic conditions that are favorable for flash flooding in and close to the watch area, but the occurrence is neither certain nor imminent.

Flash Flood Warning 

• Issued to inform the public, emergency management, and other cooperating agencies that flash flooding is in progress, imminent, or highly likely. 

How to Protect Yourself: 

• Turn around, don't drown! 

• Only six inches of fast-moving water holds enough force to knock over an adult. 

• Only two feet of water will carry away most vehicles (yes, even trucks and SUVs). 

•  Avoid areas that are flooded or prone to flash flooding during heavy thunderstorms. 
•  Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades where floods are present.