What Causes Flooding in the Winter?

This time of year is a reminder that we are moving out of fall and into Winter. Many areas of the country are already knee-deep in winter (literally), while others may not feel the same effects. Floods are the number one natural disaster in the United States, and flooding can cause damage and destruction across the nation. It wipes out homes, businesses, and personal financial resources, so it’s important to know what your risk is, what you can do to prevent it, and how to prepare for it.

It may seem like an odd statement, but every part of the United States is at risk for winter flooding. Since many individuals are focused primarily on ice and snow this time of year, this is still the time to remind all of you to think about your winter flood risk. Here are a few things you need to know about winter flooding in the U.S. and how Big Bags USA® can help you prepare.


Causes of Winter Flooding

Because there are so many different situations that can cause winter flooding, it’s important to take some time to familiarize yourself with the cause and effect. The most common winter flooding is generally created from coastal flooding, ice jams, and rapid snowmelt. However, as we saw last winter, all it takes is a really rainy winter season and the flooding can become devastating.

Every area is going to experience different types of winter weather. The East Coast is particularly susceptible because large, low-pressure areas whose winds come from the northeast can lead to coastal flooding from the Mid-Atlantic states to the Northeast.

Snowmelt is more common as the transition from winter to spring happens, but it doesn’t take much to cause a huge problem. Snowmelt can release HUGE amounts of water in short periods of time, and the frozen ground prevents the meltwater from penetrating the ground and being absorbed. This is most common in the Northern states of the Midwest, but it truly affects all of the states below them. The runoff from the snowmelt can cause streams and rivers to overflow their banks, which then results in flooding across the fields and croplands of the Midwest - as we saw in 2019.

Finally, the Western U.S. is not to be left out, as winter is the rainy season for them. The Pacific storm systems move inland and bring the potential for heavy rains. Cold-season precipitation is the main supply of water to rivers int he region, and for people living in this portion of the U.S. Winter rains can also lead to flooding and mudslides, which can cause millions of dollars in property damage year after year.


Preparing for Winter Flooding

If you live in an area that is susceptible to winter flooding, it’s time to start preparing in advance for flood conditions. The threat of flooding can become imminent and FAST, so if you prepare now, you’ll be thankful when it comes. Here are a few things you can do to get ready:
Purchase a flood insurance policy if you don’t already have one.
Review your current insurance policy and become familiar with what is and is not.
Make a flood plan, plan evacuation routes, and keep important papers in a safe, waterproof place.
Itemize and take pictures of possessions.
Speak with your community leaders about their plans for protection.

Big Bags USA For ALL Of Your Flooding Needs

There are many protective flood barrier products on the market to stop, prevent and divert the flow of water and land containment. While many of these products work well, we feel it is best to identify any unique demands of the situation and consider cost, time, resources, length of deployment, clean-up cost, and finally the end-use or reuse of your flood barrier product.

The benefits of using Big Bags USA sandbags barrier are many and varied. The most notable is the price comparison. We offer the high-quality Big Bags USA sandbags flood barrier at a great economic price with the most affordable price per linear foot. Another highly notable benefit to Big Bags USA sandbags protective flood barrier is the reduced amount of resources that are needed to deploy the systems.

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.


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

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