FLOOD DEFINITIONS: RIVER FLOOD- Occurs when heavy precipitation (sometimes accompanied by snow melt) fills river basins with water beyond the holding capacity of the river banks FLASH FLOOD- Produced by very heavy rain in a short amount of time that creates a rapid flow of water over areas not prepared to handle the runoff. Most flooding deaths are the result of flash floods COASTAL FLOOD- Caused by winds and waves generated by tropical storms, hurricanes, or strong mid-latitude cyclones that drives ocean water well inland. Coastal floods can produce beach erosion and damage to beach property URBAN FLOOD- Urbanization increases runoff since concrete does not allow percolate of rain water. This type of flooding produces excess runoff that floods roads, basements and parking lots NOAA WATCHES AND WARNINGS: FLASH FLOOD WATCH- The synoptic conditions are conducive to produce localized flooding within the forecast area. Be on the lookout for flash flooding FLASH FLOOD WARNING- Flooding is making travel extremely dangerous in some areas. If in a flood prone area, immediately take refuge to higher ground FLASH FLOOD SAFETY: 1. Get out of areas that are subject to flooding 2. Do not drive through water of an unknown depth 3. Do not drive through moving water 4. If your vehicle stalls, seek higher ground 5. Be especially cautious at night since most flash flood deaths occur in automobiles at night RIVER FLOOD SAFETY: 1. Know the risk factor for flooding at your residence 2. Store fresh drinking water 3. Have battery operated TV, radio, phone 4. Keep a stockpile of food that does not require electricity to cook or cool 5. Have automobile gas tanks full 6. Evacuate area when ordered |