Things You Need to Know About Flash Floods

The people experiencing flash floods often get a lot of flack on social media for not being prepared enough or handling the situation appropriately. But the truth is, there’s really not a lot you can do to prepare for one of these. They happen in a “flash,” hence, the name. At Big Bags USA, we want to help communities prepare for these types of things, even if you really can’t always prepare for them. Here are a few things you need to know about flash floods, how you can prepare for them, how you can stay safe, and maybe even how to see the warning signs.


What is a Flash Flood

Let’s start by focusing on what a flash flood is. A flash flood is any flood that develops in less than six hours. They can occur almost anywhere, but will commonly be found in areas with poor drainage systems or with low-altitude. All it takes is a good hard rain, and many areas can experience flash floods. There are other factors, like dam failures, ice jams, and snow melts, but oftentimes it is just that the rain came down hard in an area that isn’t capable of handling it quickly.

The Difference Between a Watch and a Warning

A flash flood watch, according to the National Weather Service, indicates that the conditions are favorable for a flash flood. It does not mean that the area will actually get one, but it does give you a bit of a heads up if you live in the area, or travel through it.

A flash flood warning can mean that a flash flood is currently happening, or could be imminent in the area that is under the advisory. That doesn’t mean you’ll have one, as many factors play into it. But it does mean that you need to be cautious.

Flash Flood Safety Tips

While you can’t always prepare for flash floods, you can at least be aware of your surroundings, and prepare for them “just in case.” Here are a few tips to help give you some basic guidelines when it comes to flash flooding.
  • If you think a flash flood is coming, avoid drainage ditches, stream beds, or any area where water is moving quickly.
  • You should NEVER drive into a road covered in water. Did you know that more than 65% of flood-related deaths occur when drivers try to navigate through flooded roads? A foot of water is enough to float most standard-size vehicles. Not only that, but most flooded roads and bridges are too damaged by water for a vehicle to cross to the other side. If floodwaters do rise around your car, abandon the care and move to higher ground. If you know certain roads are prone to flooding in your area, plan an alternate route during anticipated storms.
  • You should also never walk through floodwater, either, but if you must, try to walk in areas where the water is not moving or is moving more slowly. You can use a long stick to test the grounds that is in front of you. You’ll be looking for holes, rough patches, or soft areas, which can keep you from tripping.


Staying Safe in Flood Zones

The truth is, you can’t always prepare for a flash flood, however, if your area is prone to flooding, there are a few things you can do. The first is to make sure that your area leaders know about Big Bags USA® Flood Barriers. The more they know, the better they can do, and having the right tools on hand for those situations that are not entirely unexpected is key. The second is to know your area. You can’t expect a flash flood, but you can know what has happened in the past and prepare for them that way. When you know a big rain is coming, if you are in a low lying area, or a place that tends to get high waters, you can prepare in advance. Whether this involves stocking up on supplies or setting up your fast flood barriers (you know what we’re talking about!), you can feel more prepared when you have taken appropriate steps.

Big Bags USA developed our economic flood barriers because we knew that communities needed a solution and one that was better than what was out there. Not only are our flood barriers the fastest to set up, but they are also incredibly economical, and require very little tools, resources, or manpower. They work great for commercial use or residential use, and even if your town won’t invest in them, you can personally use them and aim to be the only dry house on the block! Visit our website to learn more about our products. We would love to connect with you, give you more information, and share our love of helping the communities around the nation.

MADE IN THE USA ~ 100% Manufactured in Missouri ~ BUY AMERICAN  

If you have an immediate need for our systems or have any questions for us, please call us toll-free at 1-800-337-0537 or visit www.BigBagsUSA.com.



D.R.I.P.S.
Disaster Relief & Innovative
Protection Systems, LLC
(573) 480-6699

Let's Connect!


ALWAYS READY TO HELP LOCAL, STATE, & FEDERAL AGENCIES ... BE PREPARED!


Location: Camdenton, MO 65020, USA

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