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Flash Flood Facts

A flash flood is the fastest forming and fastest moving type of flood event, usually formed when heavy rain collects in a stream or gully, turning calm waters into a raging current powerful enough to sweep away people, animals, and even cars.  People are usually caught off guard, and unable to get to higher ground fast enough. 

Any flood situation is dangerous, but flash floods are especially so because of the speed with which they both form and move, coming at you with little or no advanced warning.

Dam failures usually create the worst flash flood events; the structural failure of a dam sends gigantic quantities of water surging downstream, fully capable of obliterating everything in its path.

Flash flood waters move at extremely high rates of speed, and have been seen to move boulders, uproot trees, obliterate bridges, and wash away entire houses or businesses.  In addition, the debris carried within the flood can cause additional damage or injury.

Due to the rapidly forming nature of flash floods, it is advised to move immediately to higher ground.  Don’t hang around or pack a bag….get out.  And forget driving through it.  Six inches of rushing water is enough to knock a grown man over, and two feet of water can float a car.  People die every year from being trapped in vehicles that are swept away by raging flood waters.

If your home or business has been damaged by flood waters, call your local water damage restoration company.