York County, Pennsylvania, is no stranger to water damage from flash flooding. On Labor Day weekend of 2018, a massive flash flood destroyed roads, bridges, and homes in southeastern York County. Over a four-hour period, eight to fourteen inches of rain fell in parts of South Central Pennsylvania. The rainfall was about the same as Tropical Storm Agnes in 1972. The 2018 floodwater rose within hours instead of days, as with the storm, Agnes.
“That was the worst thing that I have seen in a long time,” commented the local fire chief, who is also the deputy emergency management director for Chanceford Township.
The brunt of the flooding washed over six townships in York County: Hellam, Chanceford, Lower Chanceford, Hopewell, East Hopewell, and Fawn. A year later, the effects could still be seen. Road closure signs were still up. Piles of debris that washed downstream had not been removed. Empty lots where houses once stood were still eerily vacant.
When a flash flood occurs, minutes can mean a matter of life and death for families caught in the sudden surge of rushing waters. Once ensnared in the rushing torrent, escape is all but impossible. The waters, writhing with debris, crush whatever is in its path. Surviving a flash flood requires preparation, an escape route, and a recovery plan.
Here are six flash flood survival tips.
1. Stay informed by learning and understanding the key terminology
Key Definitions
Flood watch: Watch out because the conditions are right for flooding to occur in the area.
Flood warning: Flooding is either in progress or will start immediately.
Acton steps
- Remain alert by turning on the TV, radio, or weather alert app.
- Plan an escape route to higher ground by both vehicle and on foot.
- Bring in outdoor furniture.
- Move important or valuable indoor items to the highest possible point in the home or building.
- Unplug electrical appliances.
- Do not touch electrical equipment when wet or standing in water.
- If directed, turn off the gas and electricity at the main switch or valve to prevent fires and explosions.
When the flooding starts, follow these tips:
- Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground.
- Evacuate if instructed by officials.
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
2. Prepare the family well in advance of severe weather
Put together a disaster kit made up of essential items that may be needed in the event of an emergency. Include food, water, first aid, and basic sanitary supplies.
3. Know the flood history of the surrounding area
Know the risk of flooding for the general area. What areas are most severely affected by swiftly rising waters? Become familiar with local emergency plans and evacuation routes.
4. Create an emergency communication plan that is ready at all times
Include a centralized meeting place in case the family gets separated.
5. Follow vehicle safety during a flood
Six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet; one foot of water can sweep a vehicle away. Remember the saying “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” The leading cause of weather-related deaths in the US is flash flooding.
6. After a flood
Return home only when it is safe. Be careful around flood debris. Keep an eye out for stranded wildlife. Watch out for snakes that have sought higher ground to escape the water. Roads and walkways may have been weakened or eroded from the floodwaters.
7. Proactive administrative advice
The administrative tips listed below can facilitate flash flood and other property damage recovery. Call a water and flood damage restoration company as soon as possible, should a home or business sustain flood damage. Waiting could lead to advanced secondary water damage that could add thousands of dollars to the cost of the water and flood damage restoration. Delay could affect the acceptance of the claim by the insurance company.
- Photograph property damage for insurance purposes.
- Consider buying flood insurance if available for the area.
- Contact a fire, water, flood, and mold damage restoration specialist about creating a business continuity plan in the case of a flash flood, fire, water, or other property damage event.
For more information about water, fire, flood, and mold damage restoration, visit the Major Restoration Services website at www.majorrs.com. The office can be contacted by phone at (717) 855-2367 or by email at info@majorrs.com.
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