Owatonna Fire Department is joining the Minnesota Department of Public Safety and the National Weather Service in promoting general weather safety this week for Severe Weather Awareness Week. This is the perfect time for residents to practice their preparedness for the variety of severe weather hazards that occur in Minnesota.
Today’s focus is on floods and flash floods. Here are a few facts about each:
Today’s focus is on floods and flash floods. Here are a few facts about each:
- Floods
- One of the most common natural hazards in Minnesota.
- Seasonal snowmelt floods tend to develop slowly.
- Flash Floods
- Flash floods develop quickly during heavy rains, leaving little time for preparation.
- Risks are greater in low-lying areas, near existing water, behind a levee or downstream from a dam.
There are a few steps to take before, during, and after a flood to reduce the risks from harm and property destruction:
- Before a Flood
- Create a Communications Plan
- Assemble an Emergency Kit
- Know Your Risk
- Sign Up for Notifications
- Construct barriers with Sandbags
- Get Flood Insurance, if applicable
- Pack and Be Prepared to Evacuate
- Charge Your Essential Electronics
- During a Flood
- Stay Informed
- Get to Higher Ground
- Obey Evacuation Orders
- Practice Electrical Safety
- Avoid Flood Waters
- After a Flood
- Stay Informed
- Avoid Flood Waters
- Avoid Disaster Areas
- Heed Road Closed and Cautionary Signs
- Wait for the All Clear
- Contact Your Family and Loved Ones
More information is available on the Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and National Weather Service (NWS) websites.