Read our Complete Guide to Flood Preparedness
Floods can happen quickly, and in some cases, evacuation is the only way to stay safe. Having a well-thought-out flood evacuation plan ensures that you and your loved ones can act fast and avoid life-threatening situations. Here’s what you need to do to prepare.
Why You Need a Flood Evacuation Plan
- Flash floods can develop in minutes, giving little time to react.
- Roads may become impassable, requiring alternative routes.
- Emergency services may be delayed, so you need to be self-sufficient.
📢 The National Weather Service (NWS) warns: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” – Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and 12 inches can sweep a car away.
How to Create a Flood Evacuation Plan
1. Identify Your Flood Risk
- Use FEMA’s Flood Map to check if you live in a high-risk flood zone.
- Learn about past flood history in your area.
- Monitor local weather alerts for flood warnings.
2. Plan Your Evacuation Route
- Identify two or more evacuation routes in case of road closures.
- Avoid bridges over fast-moving water and low-lying roads that may flood first.
- Share your evacuation plan with all family members.
3. Establish a Safe Meeting Place
- Choose a high-ground location that is outside the flood-prone area.
- Designate a secondary location in case the first option is inaccessible.
- Ensure everyone knows where to go and how to get there.
4. Pack a Flood Emergency Kit
- Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit with water, food, first aid supplies, medications, and important documents.
- Store emergency supplies in a waterproof bag or container.
- Keep extra fuel in your vehicle in case of long evacuations.
5. Prepare for Pets and Special Needs
- Have a pet emergency kit with food, water, and a leash.
- Identify pet-friendly shelters ahead of time.
- Ensure seniors or individuals with disabilities have a customized evacuation plan.
6. Stay Informed
- Sign up for local emergency alerts via text or email.
- Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to NOAA Weather Radio.
- Follow official evacuation orders immediately when issued.
📢 Important: Never wait until the last minute to evacuate. Delays can put you and your family in danger.
What to Do During a Flood Evacuation
✅ Follow evacuation routes provided by local authorities.
✅ Avoid driving through floodwaters—it only takes 12 inches to carry away a small car.
✅ Keep your emergency kit with you at all times.
✅ Text instead of calling to keep phone lines open for emergency responders.
✅ Stay updated on flood conditions via emergency broadcasts and alerts.
Stay Prepared and Take Action
A flood evacuation plan can save lives. Taking proactive steps today ensures that you and your family are ready for any flood emergency.
📥 Want to learn more about flood preparedness? Download our How to Prepare for a Flood resources for expert guidance and checklists.
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👉 Donate to support disaster response efforts.
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Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay safe.
