Flood FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about flood safety, protecting your home, evacuation, and knowing when the water is too dangerous to drive through — because when floodwaters rise, the decisions you make in the moment depend on the preparation you did before.
Common Questions
How do I survive a flood?
Follow all evacuation orders promptly. Move to higher ground immediately when flooding threatens. If trapped indoors, move to the highest level. Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters — just six inches can knock you down and two feet can sweep away many larger vehicles.
How do I prepare for a flood?
Know your flood zone and have an evacuation plan in place before flooding occurs. Stock an emergency kit with at least 72 hours of supplies, keep important documents in a waterproof container, and consider flood insurance. Sign up for local emergency alerts so you can act quickly when conditions change.
What should I do during a flood?
Monitor local emergency alerts and be ready to evacuate immediately if ordered. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters — the depth and current are often deceiving. Turn off utilities if instructed, move valuables to higher levels, and never return home until authorities confirm it is safe to do so.
How do I protect my home from flooding?
Elevate critical systems (HVAC, water heater, electrical panel) above the base flood elevation. Install check valves on sewer lines, seal foundation cracks, install sump pumps with battery backup, and grade property to slope water away from the foundation.
How much does flood insurance cost?
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) premiums average $700 per year but vary by risk zone, building elevation, and coverage amount. Low-risk zones (Preferred Risk Policy) cost $350 to $500 annually. High-risk zones can exceed $3,000. Quote at floodsmart.gov.
What is flash flooding?
Flash flooding is rapid rising water in a short period (6 hours or less) after heavy rain, dam failure, or ice melt. It is the leading weather-related killer. Never drive through flood water; 24 inches can carry a truck or SUV away. Head for high ground immediately.
How do I safely evacuate during a flood?
Leave before water rises. Follow local evacuation orders; do not delay to gather belongings. Take your go-bag, medications, and documents. Avoid flooded roads (Turn Around, Don't Drown). Six inches of moving water can knock you down; 12 inches can float a small car, and 24 inches can sweep away a truck.
How deep is too deep to drive through floodwater?
Any depth is too deep. Six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet. Twelve inches can float most cars. Two feet can sweep away SUVs and trucks. Turn around rather than attempt to cross any flooded road.