Storms and Floods: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Storm and Flood Preparation: What You Need to Know

Storms and flooding can strike with little warning, turning normal life into a scramble for safety and resources. Whether it's a hurricane, a flash flood, or a prolonged thunderstorm system, water-related disasters are among the most common and costly types of emergencies worldwide. Proper storm and flood preparation is not just about protecting your home—it’s about safeguarding your health, mobility, and access to critical supplies.

Understand Your Risk

The first step in flood preparedness is knowing your local risk. Check if your home or region lies within a floodplain or near coastal areas, rivers, or low-lying zones. Even areas with no history of flooding can be vulnerable due to poor drainage or changing weather patterns. Stay informed with local weather alerts and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, especially if you live in a high-risk zone.

Prepare Your Home

Protecting your property starts with physical barriers and smart design. Simple tools like L-shaped plastic flood barriers can help redirect water away from doors, garages, and basement entrances. Make sure gutters are clear and sump pumps are functioning. For longer power outages, a portable generator can keep essential devices and appliances running, including sump pumps, fridges, or medical equipment. Just be sure to operate it safely outdoors with proper ventilation.

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Having supplies on hand is critical. A well-stocked kit should include clean drinking water (at least one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food for at least three days, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, a manual can opener, and any necessary medications. For longer disruptions, a 3-month emergency food supply with calorie-balanced, shelf-stable meals is ideal. These kits reduce reliance on grocery stores, which may be inaccessible or out of stock during and after storms.

Plan for Safety and Communication

Communication is often overlooked. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive emergency updates if cell service goes down. Establish a family communication plan—know where to meet, who to call, and how to signal for help. Also, keep important documents (insurance papers, ID, prescriptions) in a waterproof container or stored digitally with backups.

Don’t Forget Personal Gear

If evacuation becomes necessary, an inflatable life raft or personal flotation device may be lifesaving in flood-prone areas. Even simple tools like waterproof boots, gloves, and masks can make a difference during clean-up. A small, well-organized medical kit is essential for treating minor injuries when hospitals or clinics are overwhelmed.