Floods are common in West Virginia, Are You Prepared

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Know Your Risk for Floods
Visit WV Flood Tool to know types of flood risk in your area.  Sign up for your community's warning system. Contact your county emergency management agency  to find out what system they use. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

Purchase Flood Insurance
Homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flooding. Even if you do not live in a flood zone, consider purchasing flood insurance. Over 40% of flood claims are NOT in the high-risk flood zone. If you already have flood insurance, be sure to renew it and not let it lapse.  Learn about flood insurance coverage at FloodSmart.gov

Download the Be Prepared for Floods Tips sheet to learn what to do before, during, and after a flood.

Preparing BEFORE a Flood
Make a plan for your household, including your pets, so that you and your family know what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding.

• Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response.
• Create an emergency supply kit that includes non-perishable food, water, medicines, personal hygiene items, phone charger, and any special needs you may in case you must evacuate quickly, or if services are cut off in your area. See Basic Emerg​ency Kit checklist.
• Keep important documents, like IDs (birth certificates, passports, driver's license), title or loan documents for your home and car, bank accounts, etc. in a safe fire and waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies. Protect your property.
• Move valuables to higher levels.
• Declutter drains and gutters.
• Consider a sump pump with a battery.

Learn more about preparedness before, during and after floods at Ready.gov​