Flood Preparedness, Not only for Springtime

ReadyWV is supporting Flood Safety Awareness and encouraging all West Virginians to know your risk, take action, and be an example where you live.

Flooding is a nationwide threat to the United States and its territories throughout the year, especially here in West Virginia with its many creeks and rivers. However not all floods are alike. Some floods develop slowly, while others, such as flash floods, can develop in just a few minutes and without visible signs of rain. Floods can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.

Everyone should be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near creeks or rivers, behind a levee or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood.

ReadyWV alongside Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Ready Campaign will be encouraging West Virginia residents to take action against flooding by:

· Determining your risk to flooding by reviewing flood-hazard maps

· Building an emergency kit and making a family communications plan.

· Elevating the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.

· Holding a discussion, drill, or exercise.

For additional information go to:

FLOOD PREP
Different types of hazards

Spanish-language web site

Contact:

Gina Namay

gina.l.namay@wv.gov