Floods

As Campbell County contains multiple natural and man-made water systems, flooding of properties or roadways can occasionally create hazards within the locality. The following informational items and safety steps can assist in reducing flood-related damage to property and personal injury.

Flood Watches & Warnings
Flood Warning
Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; monitor local advisories for emergency notices. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.

Flash Flood Warning
A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground (on foot) immediately.

Flood Watch
Watches indicate that flooding is possible. Citizens should tune in to local media and NOAA radio for weather updates.

Flash Flood Watch
Due to local conditions, flash flooding is possible and citizens should be prepared to move to higher ground.

Flood Safety While Driving
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your vehicle, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Six inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many vehicles; two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.
  • Be aware that heavy precipitation can create temporary streams of run-off water and impact roadways usually unaffected by flooding. Debris-clogged drainage areas can also cause water/mud to collect on highways creating hazardous driving conditions. Monitor roadway closures, delays, or detours online.
  • If your vision is hindered by excessive precipitation, pull over in a safe location (away from potential flood zones). Select a spot out of the line of traffic and away from trees, power lines and water sources. Turn on caution lights to indicate your location to other drivers; tune into local radio stations for weather updates and shelter openings.
  • Check-in with a family member or emergency contact to indicate your location.
Flood Composite
If a Flood Is Impacting Your Home
  • If time allows, secure your home. Bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
  • If safely possible, turn off all utilities at the main power switch; close the main gas valve, if advised to do so by your service provider.
  • Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. If the power is out, use a flashlight rather than open flame lighting sources to check utility boxes and gas valves.
  • If water rises in your home rapidly, proceed safely to the top floor, attic or roof; if time allows grab a cell phone to call 9-1-1 for assistance.
  • Try not to walk through moving water; if necessary, proceed to where little or no water current is flowing. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground/floor in front of you and determine where objects or depressions may be located.
If the Need Arises to Evacuate
  • Ensure vehicles’ gas tanks are filled with fuel; take only emergency supplies/essential items; do not overload your vehicle.
  • Go to higher ground immediately; use a recent map of the area and follow routes away from low-lying areas and streams/rivers.
  • Do not drive through flood waters. Be aware of downed trees and power-lines; assume all power lines are live.
  • Monitor local conditions and stay tuned to local media for updates; keep apprised of public safety notices and the opening/location of any emergency shelters.
  • View an up-to-date listing of local road closures and detours and additional emergency sheltering information.
  • View potential flood evacuation routes.
If Caught in Swift Water
  • Try not to walk through moving water; if necessary, walk where little/no water current is flowing.
  • Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • If in a vehicle and a window is still above the waterline, lower the window and climb out.
  • If swept into floodwaters, point your feet downstream.
  • Go over obstacles, never attempt to go under. Seek a solid, fixed object to grasp.
Following a Flood
If your home or business has been flooded, hazards may still be present after waters recede. To keep safe following a flood incident:
  • Use local alerts and warning systems to get official information and instructions as soon as available.
  • Avoid moving water.
  • Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by law enforcement, public safety officials or relief organizations.
  • Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
  • Be aware that additional flooding/flash floods can occur, even if local precipitation has ceased. Listen for local warnings and information. Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
  • Roads may still be closed due to damage or if they are covered by water, thus barricades are often placed for citizen protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, find another, safer route to your destination.
  • Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
  • Flooding may have caused familiar places to change quickly as swift water can often erode roads and walkways. Be aware that flood debris may also hide broken glass and other hazardous objects.
  • Floodwaters may weaken roadways, bridges and other structures. Check to ensure officials have deemed a roadway/structure safe before using it.
  • Use extreme caution when entering buildings following a flood; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
Staying Healthy During & After a Flood Event
A flood can cause not only emotional stress, but can likewise pose health risks in affected areas. The following steps can help in keeping you and your family safe and healthy during and after a flood:
  • Avoid contact with floodwaters as they may be polluted with chemicals, oil/gasoline or raw sewage.
  • Repair or replace damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible to minimize risk of contamination.
  • Listen to news reports or call utility services to learn whether the local water supply is safe to drink.
  • Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by floodwaters. Mud left from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.
  • Rest often and eat well; do not eat any food item that has been in contact with floodwater water, even if sealed.
  • Do clean-up jobs one at a time and avoid over-exertion.
  • Seek medical assistance if feeling ill or if you have a wound that was exposed to flood waters.
  • Discuss your concerns with others if feeling emotionally overwhelmed. Contact the American Red Cross for information on local support available in your area.
Cleaning Up & Repairing Your Home
Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, even if the power is off in your community. Only turn the electricity back on once it is determined that the area is dry and safe.
FEMA recommends obtaining a free copy of the book Repairing Your Flooded Home which is available from the American Red Cross or your state or local emergency manager. This manual explains:
Flood Sign
  • How to enter your home safely.
  • How to protect your home and belongings from further damage.
  • How to record damage to support insurance claims and requests for assistance.
  • How to check for gas or water leaks and how to have service restored.
  • How to clean up appliances, furniture, floors and other belongs.
  • The Red Cross can provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies.
  • Contact your insurance agent to discuss claims.
  • Listen to media broadcasts for information regarding assistance programs.
  • If you hire cleanup or repair contractors, check references and be sure they are bonded. Be wary of drive-through companies canvassing neighborhoods offering clean-up services.
Flood Insurance - What You Should Know
As FEMA manages the National Flood Insurance Program, here are some key points home and business owners should know:
  • Flood losses are not typically covered under renters' and homeowners' insurance policies.
  • FEMA manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which makes federally-backed flood insurance available in communities that adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances to minimize flood damage.
  • Flood insurance is available in most communities through insurance agents.
  • There is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance goes into effect.
FEMA Recommendations for Citizens
  • Determine if a property is at risk of flood damage.
  • Educate yourself and your family on the effects a natural or man-made flood could have not only on the family unit, but on the community (schools, churches, government, etc.).
  • Contact local Public Safety officials regarding flood preparedness planning in your area.
  • Consult an insurance provider to determine if you need additional flood coverage.
  • Contact the NFIP to determine if your locality participates in the insurance program. For more information, visit Flood Smart, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).