Thursday, March 10, 2011

Spring Showers or Spring Flooding?


Flooding is a coast to coast threat to Delawareans during all months of the year.  Anywhere it rains, it can flood.  This week, 26 States are reporting flooding and flash flooding, with flood watches and warnings currently in effect throughout the Eastern and Southern United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Midwestern states are especially susceptible to snow melt and ice jam that cause spring flooding, but states in every region of the country are at risk.  Floodsmart.gov defines a flood as a general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land or two or more properties are inundated by water or mudflow. 

The 14th through 18th of March is National Flood Safety Awareness Week.  Its purpose is to highlight some of the many ways floods can occur, the hazards associated with floods, and what can be done to safe life and property.  “It is important to be prepared for flooding regardless of location, but particularly if situated in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam.”

The following resources are available to promote flooding awareness and preparedness to enhance personnel safety:

·         The Ready Campaign
·         FEMA’s FloodSmart Program
·         FEMA’s Flood Preparedness
·         Flood Insurance  
  

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