Know Your Area's Flood Risk
For information, call your local National Weather Service Office, Red Cross Chapter, or local emergency management agency.
Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance. Homeowners' policies do not cover flooding. Contact your insurance
agent to find out how to get Flood Insurance.
Even 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet, and a depth of 2 feet will float your
car! NEVER try to walk, swim, or drive through such swift water. If you come upon flood waters:
STOP! TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER WAY!
Some Historical NWS FLOOD Data
- Dam Break-May 31, 1889 Johnstown, Pennsylvania...the worst flood in the United States history...
36-40 feet Wall of Water...2200 dead.
- River Flood-December 1991/January 1992- South central Texas...widespread river flooding on the
Guadalupe, Brazos, Trinity and Colorado River Basins...up to 17 inches of rain...15 dead...damages $100 million.
- Flash Flood Events
- June 14, 1990 - Shadyside, Ohio...4 inches of rain in less than 2 hours produced a 30 foot high wall
of water...26 dead...damages $6-8 million.
- August 1, 1985 - Cheyenne, Wyoming...6 inches of rain in 3 hours...12 dead...damages $61 million.
Return to Flash Flood Rules Page
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