During the storm

Please be aware of the health concerns resulting from failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or returning after a flood. Protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks brought by floodwater by following these steps from FEMA during a flood:

  • Depending on where you are, and the impact and the warning time of flooding, go to the safe location that you previously identified.

  • If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.

  • Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.

  • Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!

  • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.

  • If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, then stay inside. If water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek refuge on the roof.

  • If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.

Additional health and safety tips can be found on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website: Floodwater After a Disaster or Emergency