Flood Safety for you and your family

A deep trough of moisture is expected to move across east and South Texas late Wednesday with possible storms possible throughout Thursday and Friday.  Because parts of Central Texas and the Hill Country have been under severe and extensive drought conditions for the past few months, there could be a minor risk for minor flooding.

BEFORE A FLOOD:

~Stay informed and determine whether your home, school or work is in an area likely to flood.  Learn which roadways are likely to flood and find alternate routes.

~Create a communications plan with your family and assemble an emergency kit. Charge all essential electronics and be proactive.

DURING A FLOOD:

~Stay informed and follow evacuation orders and heed warning signs.

~Avoid floodwaters. Get to higher ground if you are in an area that is subject to flooding.

AFTER A FLOOD:

~Stay informed and avoid floodwaters. Avoid disaster areas. Heed road closures and wait for the “all-clear” before returning to an area that was impacted by flooding.

~Contact your family and loved ones to let them know you are okay.

The National Weather Service reminds citizens to “Turn Around Don’t Drown.”   Six inches of fast-moving water can knock adults off their feet and sweep them away.  Twelve inches of moving water can carry off a small car.  Eighteen to twenty-four inches of moving water can carry away larger vehicles including trucks, vans and SUV’s.

If you come to an area that is covered with water, you may not know the depth of the water or the condition of the road or ground underneath.  This is especially true at night, when your vision is limited.  Play it safe.  Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded area, “Turn Around Don’t Drown.”

For more information, visit www.weather.gov/safety/flood.