Flood Safety

First published September 2022
Updated April 2026

It may feel like every weather event you encounter these days is “record-breaking.” Record-breaking snowfall, record-breaking drought, record-breaking rainfall – and in reality, that’s because it is. Natural disasters have begun increasing in frequency and intensity according to a number of studies, causing more destruction than at any other time in recorded history. Over the last 50 years, the number of natural disasters has increased fivefold. The results are a combination of historic firsts in weather-related events and historic highs in the cost of weather-related damages.

Floods and flash floods are among the most frequent and impactful disasters in the United States.

As overwhelming as understanding and preparing for these events can be, there is always hope. When facing a disaster, the best thing you can be is educated and prepared. Here are some helpful tips that we can all take to better prepare for flooding and flash flooding.

Before a Flood

• Know the Terminology:
  • Flood Advisory – conditions for a flood are possible (Be Ready)
  • Flood Watch – conditions are right for flooding (Get Set)
  • Flood Warning – conditions for a flood are imminent or underway; flooding is already occurring or will occur in your area (Go!)
  • Flash Flooding – a sudden flood occurring within a short period of time, often caused by intense rainfall. Flash floods are fast-moving and destructive and can develop in minutes.
• Stay informed. Use a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, listen to local news, and register for an emergency alert notification system.
• Assemble an emergency kit. Consider packing a go-bag with items your household would need during an emergency. Common items include water, food, infant supplies, batteries, flashlights or headlamps, chargers, a first aid kit, medication, masks, gloves, and duct tape. Keep copies of important documents in a waterproof container.
• Develop an emergency plan and review it with your family. Know how and where your family can safely retreat and how you will communicate with them if separated. Make sure this plan involves everyone in your household, including pets.

During a Flood

• Follow local authorities’ guidance. Elected officials and first responders are excellent sources of information on current conditions and can help you navigate flooded areas or other hazardous situations.
• Move to higher ground. During a flood, you should move to higher ground and avoid standing, flowing, or rising water.
• Turn around, don’t drown! Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Just 6 inches of water can knock adults off their feet and sweep them away, and 12 inches of water can sweep away small vehicles. Half of all flood-related deaths are attributed to individuals driving or walking into floodwater.

After a Flood

• Wait for the “all clear.” After an evacuation, do not return home until local authorities say it is safe to do so. Ongoing hazardous conditions such as electric lines and sharp debris can remain even after flood waters have receded.
• Contact your family. This step can seem obvious, but letting those who care about you know you’re okay can reduce stress and keep lines of communication open should you need additional resources.
• Be careful with cleanup. Once it is safe to do so, you may begin cleaning or discarding household items. Materials that cannot be readily disinfected, such as children’s stuffed animals, should be discarded. Document any property damage with photographs.

It is not always easy to think about situations like this, but a relatively small investment today could make all the difference tomorrow. Additional tips and resources about severe weather and flooding can be found at Ready.gov.