Stay Alert: Floods Threaten New York

Floods are one of the most common natural disasters in the United States, and they can be incredibly dangerous. Individuals and communities can lose everything, including their homes, businesses, and even their lives.

With the upcoming forecast pointing to signs that portions of New York may experience flooding in the next day or so, it’s important for residents in flood-prone areas to understand the risks and to be prepared.

What is a Flood?

A flood occurs when water overflows an area of land that is typically dry. Floods can come on quickly, within minutes, or gradually over longer periods. Some of the causes of flooding include rain, snow, storm surges, overflowing of dams and reservoirs, coastal storms, melting ice, and more.

The Dangers of Floods

Floods can result in large-scale destruction of property, power outages, transportation problems, mudslides, injuries, and even death. In 2020, floods caused over $1 billion in damage to property and crops across the United States.

While flooding can result in extensive damage to property, crops, and infrastructure, the most dangerous aspect of floods is the risks they present to human life. On average, 88 people die each year due to floods in the U.S. However, since 2015, more than 100 people have died annually during floods.

Flash floods are the most dangerous type of flooding. They have the destructive power of a regular flood, but come on rapidly—often with little or no warning. This results in individuals not having enough time to get to safety and becoming stranded in the flood.

Before a Flood

Make a flood plan. This will make sure that everyone in your household knows where to go, what to do, and what they’ll need in the event of a flood.

Gather several days' worth of supplies, like non-perishable food, water, cleaning supplies, medication, copies of important documents, and anything else you will need in case you have to remain sheltered or get out of your house quickly.

Pay attention to flood warnings so you have as much time as possible to prepare for the flood, either by seeking shelter or evacuating.

During a Flood

Don’t travel through floodwaters. This means don’t try to walk, swim, or drive through the moving water.

Evacuate immediately if you’re told to. As mentioned above, don’t drive through water. Also, don’t cross any bridges with rushing water beneath them as the bridges could get washed away in an instant.

If you get stuck in your car, stay inside unless the water continues to rise. In that situation, climb out onto the roof of your car.

If you’re trapped in a building, get to the highest level, but avoid closets and other small areas where you could get stuck if the water continues to rise. Only go on the roof if necessary, and signal for help.

After a Flood

Only return home once authorities have said it is safe. Even after a flood is over, your home will still be hazardous, as there is a risk of electrocution, snakes, and other animals inside your home, as well as other dangers. Turn off the electricity if you can, and don’t touch any electrical equipment that is wet or if you are standing in water. You should try not to wade in standing water since there also could be harmful debris and other risks.

Don’t drive anywhere unless necessary since the flood may have damaged roads.