www.ready.pa.gov is a very informative website. Click here to view helpful tips to stay safe and prepared and to sign up for alerts via the State of PA and Bucks County.
What to Do in a Flash Flood
Flash floods occur within six hours of the beginning of heavy rainfall. Below are some guidelines for keeping safe during a flash flood:
- Go to high ground immediately.
- Get out of areas subject to flooding, such as low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
- Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream on foot. Even water only six inches deep, when moving at a high rate of speed, can knock you off your feet.
- Never drive through flooded areas or standing water. Shallow, swiftly flowing water can wash a car from a roadway. Also, the roadbed may not be intact under the water.
- If the vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants.
- Be especially cautious at night when it’s harder to recognize flood dangers.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
- Understand the difference between a flash flood watch and a flash flood warning.
- A flash flood watch means that flooding may occur. Residents should stay alert, closely monitor rivers and streams, and be prepared to move to high ground quickly. A flash flood warning means that there is actual flooding. Residents should act at once and move to high ground.
PA Emergency Preparedness Guide
The Pennsylvania Emergency Preparedness Guide will help you get started with your emergency plan and kits and help you with planning for special needs. Access the resources below for even more helpful information.
VISIT: WWW.READY.PA.GOV
