Understanding Flood Watches and Warnings: Why Preppers Should Pay Attention
Flooding is a real threat, especially during seasons with heavy rain. For those of us who prepare for emergencies, it's important to know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. This knowledge can keep you and your loved ones safe, and help you make the right choices when the weather turns dangerous.
What’s the Difference? Flood Watch vs. Flood Warning
Knowing the difference between a watch and a warning can save lives. Here’s what each means for your family and your preparedness plan:
- Flood Watch: Conditions are right for flooding to happen, but it’s not happening yet. Stay alert and be ready to act fast if the situation changes.
- Flood Warning: Flooding is either happening right now or will very soon. This is the time to take action – move to higher ground, grab your go-bag, and follow your emergency plan.
Why Preppers Need Multiple Alert Systems
When flooding is possible, you need to get updates from more than one place. Never rely on a single way to get weather alerts. Your phone could die, the power could go out, or you might not have internet. Preppers should always have backup ways to stay informed.
- NOAA Weather Radio: These battery-powered or hand-crank radios work even when the power is out.
- Smartphone Weather Apps: Set up alerts for your area, but don’t count on them as your only source.
- Local News: Listen to local radio or TV, especially if you lose cell service.
Flood Survival: Move Fast, Move Smart
Flooding can happen quickly, sometimes with very little warning. If you live near rivers, streams, or in low-lying areas, you are at higher risk. When a warning comes, it's time to act, not wait and see. Have your evacuation plan ready and know your safest routes to higher ground.
Never try to walk or drive through flood waters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and a foot of water can carry away most cars. Remember: "Turn Around, Don't Drown."
Building Your Flood Emergency Plan
Every prepper should have a detailed flood plan. This is a family project—everyone should know what to do and where to meet if you get separated. Here’s how to start:
- Identify evacuation routes: Know where the nearest high ground is. Practice your route with your family.
- Designate meeting spots: Choose safe places to meet if you get separated. Write them down and make sure everyone remembers them.
- Have a communication plan: If cell towers go down, have a backup way to contact each other, like walkie-talkies or a meeting time and place.
Flood-Ready Emergency Kit Essentials
Your emergency supplies should be ready to grab and go. Make sure your kit is waterproof or stored in a container that floats. Here’s what to pack:
- Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days
- Non-perishable food: Easy-to-eat snacks and meals that don’t need cooking
- Flashlights and headlamps: Plus extra batteries
- First-aid kit: Include any medicines your family needs
- Weather radio: With extra batteries
- Important documents: In a waterproof bag (IDs, insurance, cash)
- Clothing and blankets: Warm, dry clothes and emergency blankets
- Sanitation supplies: Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, trash bags
- Multi-tool or pocketknife: For small repairs or emergencies
- Phone charger: Preferably solar or battery-powered
Protecting Your Home Before Floodwaters Rise
While you can’t stop a flood, you can take steps to lessen the damage. Preppers know the value of thinking ahead. Here are some ways to protect your property:
- Keep gutters and drains clear: Clean out leaves and debris so water can flow away from your house.
- Store valuables above ground level: Move important items off the floor, especially in basements or garages.
- Sandbags: Have a supply ready to block water from entering doors and garages.
- Check sump pumps: Make sure they work and have a backup power source.
- Turn off utilities: Know how to safely shut off gas, water, and electricity if told to evacuate.
After the Flood: Staying Safe and Getting Back on Your Feet
Even after the water goes down, dangers remain. Don’t go back home until officials say it’s safe. Watch out for contaminated water, downed power lines, and hidden dangers under the mud. Take your time and use protective gear like gloves and boots when cleaning up.
- Document damage for insurance: Take photos before you start cleaning up.
- Boil water: Until you know it’s safe, boil all drinking water.
- Watch for mold: Dry out your home as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.
Final Thoughts: Preparedness Is Your Best Defense
Floods can hit fast and hard, but you don’t have to be caught off guard. Prepping is about staying one step ahead—know the signs, have your gear ready, and practice your plan. When the water rises, your preparedness could save lives.
Review your emergency supplies and plans every season. Talk with your family, neighbors, and friends about flood safety. The more ready you are, the safer you’ll be—no matter what the weather brings.