About Flash Floods

What is flash flood? I am sure that all of you must be having a little idea about it. But let me explain this concept in detail to you. Flash flood is known as the flood of water in a normally arid area brought on by a sudden downpour of rain. Flash floods are usually rare and occur in mountainous region. It is described as the fastest type of flood.

It is uncommon, of relatively brief duration, and generally the result of summer thunderstorms or the rapid melting of snow and ice in mountains. A flash flood can take place in a single tributary while the rest of the drainage basin remains dry. The suddenness of its occurrence causes a flash flood to be tremendously unsafe. The best response to any signs of flash flooding is to move immediately and quickly to a higher ground.

Stay away from water and keep children safely with you (if they are outside with you). Get out of areas subject to flooding, including dips, low spots, canyons and washes. Never attempt to cross flowing streams when the water is above the ground level.

As little as two feet of water (60 cm) can be enough to carry away most SUV-sized vehicles. The National Weather Service of United States gives advice, “Turn around; don’t drown”, so that people can protect themselves when faced with such a situation. It you are at home then you should put away all your furniture and other valuables in the higher floors. Try filling bathtubs, sinks and other plastic bottles with clean water. Keep important documents, insurance policies and other valuables in a safe deposit box so that you can find them later on easily.

Even if flash floods create a panicky situation, following life and other safety measures can avert many of the inherent dangers posed by flash floods. Just be alert and keep your presence of mind if such a situation arises!