Updated on October 8, 2024.
Powerful winds aren’t the greatest risk during a hurricane. The most dangerous threat is storm surge. This is when water from the ocean is pushed toward the shore by strong winds. This surge combines with normal tides, which can increase the sea water level in coastal areas by 30 feet or more. Waves mixed with storm surge can cause extensive damage. It can erode beaches and highways. It is also powerful enough to push buildings and homes off their foundation, causing them to collapse. As water move inland, swollen rivers and lakes may add to the flooding.
Understanding the dangers of floods
Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, as well as one of the most deadly. More deaths occur due to flooding than any other hazard related to thunderstorms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“The vast majority of fatalities that we see during severe weather storms today are caused by flooding,” says Jake Marshall, a program manager for special operations with the National Transportation Safety Board.
Water can overflow and flood for many reasons, including excessive rain, ice melting from snowcaps, high sea levels, and storms. The water accumulation can be slow moving—or come on quickly—destroying everything in its path. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from flooding. Here are some ways you can stay safe during a storm.
How to prepare for floods
Have a flood plan in place that includes your entire family and any pets. Delegate where you would go in an emergency situation and what your evacuation route would be.
If you receive a flood watch alert, that means there’s a possibility of flooding in your area. Listen to emergency instructions, figure out the highest floor you can safely get to, and make sure your emergency kit—including water, food, any medications, batteries and a flashlight—is ready to go. Keep a three-day supply of water, with one gallon per person or pet for each day.
Be sure to prepare your house by moving furniture to the highest floor, disconnecting all electrical appliances, and—if you are told to do so—turning off your gas and electricity. Bring any outdoor furniture or possessions inside or tie them securely.
If you receive a flood warning, it means you should be ready for imminent flooding or that a flood is already occurring.
Get to higher ground
Marshall says you should attempt to get to the highest point in your home, excluding the attic. If water rises, you could become trapped because most attics are enclosed with only one trap door leading to the rest of the house.
“I really caution people against going into their attic unless that is the absolute last chance that they have,” he says.
Leave as early as possible
If you are told to evacuate, get out as soon as possible. Mike Wargo, vice president for enterprise preparedness and emergency operations with HCA Healthcare, suggests leaving your home as soon as you can. Once a storm hits, it becomes even more difficult to evacuate.
Understand your local traffic routes
Study and understand the best route of travel before you leave. Keep in mind: Roads will likely be congested with traffic as people try to evacuate before the storm. If you do decide to leave, “get on the road as quickly as you can,” Marshall advises.
Don’t walk or drive through floods
Even if the water doesn’t look deep, six inches of moving water can knock you down. Currents from only one foot of water can be strong enough to move your car. Ready.gov and other sites suggest “turn around, don’t drown.” That means if you start down a flooded street, turn around and look for an alternate route of travel.
“The depth of water and the conditions of water underneath the surface can rapidly become extremely dangerous,” says Marshall. Unfortunately, most people don’t realize it until it’s too late.
Risks remain in recently flooded areas
Don’t try to drive or walk in areas that have been hit by flooding.
“Listen to the advice of local authorities,” Marshall says. “And only attempt to repatriate yourselves to move back in once they have declared the area safe.”
There are many complications that can occur post-storm, like drowning or being hit by floating debris. Some people might think it’s safe to go back home or they may try to rescue a neighbor. But it’s important to manage your safety first.
Flooding can also result in exposure to contaminated water.
“If someone does go into flood waters and reemerge seemingly safe, several weeks later we often see folks come down with very serious sicknesses,” Marshall says. These illnesses can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and toxins lurking in flood water.
Anywhere standing water can sit and accumulate can become breeding areas for insects and parasites that may spread diseases. For instance, in newer communities and developments, storm runoff and rainwater may be collected in something called a water retention pond. These ponds can have some benefits to the community by helping to prevent flooding in homes and businesses, but they may also pose potential health hazards such as insect-borne illnesses. Stay away from these areas and apply bug spray.
What's more, if there’s a fallen power source in standing water, it can cause electrocution. What to do in this case?
“Don't enter the flood water and heed public evacuation warnings that are issued by officials,” Marshall cautions.
The bottom line: Be aware of your surroundings, only leave your shelter area once you’re given the okay to do so, and avoid flood water at all costs.
