What is a Flash Flood?

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Give us a Call if there is water running into your house from a flash flood. 518-677-3444

What is a flash flood? A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas, usually caused by heavy from sever thunderstorms, hurricanes, or collapsing of human made structures like dams. The National Weather Service defines flash flooding as flooding that begins within 6 hours of heavy rainfall.  They also recommend people get out of the area of the flash flood and not attempt to face it or cross its paths.

                What makes these floods so dangerous is how rapidly they can occur and how fast moving the water can be. Flash floods are serious and many loose their lives yearly from them. There are several steps however you can take to keep you and your family safe during a flash flood!

1. Have an emergency plan and kit ready.
2. Follow evacuation orders immediately.
3. Stay up to date on weather forecasts.
4. Do not attempt to walk and or drive near flooded areas.
5. If it is too late to evacuate your home call 911 and move to the highest point in your home.

We here at SERVPRO know the seriousness of flash floods and we are always here to help. If you’ve experienced any water damage due to a recent storm, give SERVPRO of North Rensselaer/ South Washington County a call and well make sure to make it "Like it never even happened."