Prepare for Flooding: Helpful Links

Stay prepared for flooding throughout the hurricane season. No drainage system, no matter how well designed, is 100% flood proof. Whether you live in a flood-prone area or not, potential flooding from heavy rains may still affect you. Preparing for potential flooding requires action and the following list of links can help you get started.

First, know your risk for flooding. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center at https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home and locate your flood zone. Sign up for your community’s warning system with the Emergency Alert System (EAS) at https://www.fcc.gov/emergency-alert-system and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)  https://www.noaa.gov. Also, consider purchasing a weather radio to receive local emergency alerts and updates.

Additionally, residents can prepare for the potential impact of a flood by purchasing or renewing a flood insurance policy. Homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. It typically takes a new flood insurance policy up to 30 days for the policy to go into effect so the time to buy is well before a disaster. Visit https://www.floodsmart.gov for help with obtaining flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Most importantly, make a plan for your household so that you and your family know what to do, where to go and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding. Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response. Gather supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies and water for several days, in case you must leave immediately or if services are cut off in your area. Store important documents and photos in watertight plastic containers.

You can find more information and helpful tips at https://www.ready.gov/plan.