Did you know that floods kill more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes or lightning?
Flooding occurs in every state and is a threat experienced anywhere in the world that receives rain. Flash floods, however, are rapidly developing floods that can happen with little or no warning. Flash flooding is responsible for more fatalities—(129 in 2015 according to NOAA’s U.S. Natural Hazards Statistics)—than any other thunderstorm-associated hazard. Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of floods, because they combine the destructive power of a flood with incredible speed and unpredictability. Flash floods occur when excessive water fills normally dry creeks or river beds along with currently flowing creeks and rivers, causing rapid rises of water in a short amount of time. They can happen with little or no warning.
What areas are at risk from flash floods?
Densely populated areas are at a high risk for flash floods. The construction of buildings, highways, driveways, and parking lots increases runoff by reducing the amount of rain absorbed by the ground. This runoff increases the flash flood potential.
Sometimes, streams through cities and towns are routed underground into storm drains. During heavy rain, the storm drains can become overwhelmed and flood roads and buildings. Low spots, such as underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements can become death traps.
Areas near rivers are at risk from flash floods. Embankments, known as levees, are often built along rivers and are used to prevent high water from flooding bordering land.
Dam failures can send a sudden destructive wall of water downstream. Mountains and steep hills also produce rapid runoff , which causes streams to rise quickly. Rocks and clay soils do not allow much water to infiltrate the ground. Saturated soil also can lead rapidly to flash flooding. Vacationing or recreating along streams or rivers can be a risk if there are thunderstorms in the area. A creek only 6 inches deep in mountainous areas can swell to a 10-foot deep raging river in less than an hour if a thunderstorm lingers over an area for an extended period of time.
Flood Safety Tips:
- Know your area's flood risks. Monitor the Arkansas Weather page and your local news stations for vital weather information.
- Stay alert for signs of heavy rain (thunder and lightning), both where you are and upstream. Watch for rising water levels.
- Get to higher ground if flooding occurs. Leave low-lying areas immediately.
- Do not try to outrun a flash flood in your car. Climb to safety immediately.
- Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Remember: turn around; don’t drown.
- Don't try to swim to safety; wait for rescuers to come to you.
- Be especially cautious at night, when it is harder to recognize and respond to danger. During threatening conditions, do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and rivers.
When going outdoors to enjoy the Natural State, you should always prepared with appropriate clothes and equipment, check weather conditions prior to a trip and let people know where you are going and when you will return will help ensure your outdoor adventure is filled with fond memories.
