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SERVPROSERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
(216) 464-4498

Flash Flood Safety in Valley View

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

flash flood in front of home What qualifies as a flash flood? Where are they most prevalent? How can you stay safe? SERVPRO Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here to explain!

Flash floods can be dangerous. They are also complex and sometimes confusing. What qualifies as a flash flood? Where are they most prevalent? How can you stay safe? SERVPRO Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast is here to explain!

What is a Flash Flood?

The National Weather Service defines flash flooding as, “flooding that begins within 6 hours, and often within 3 hours, of the heavy rainfall (or other cause).” They also explain they are mostly caused by extremely heavy rainfall as well as dam or levee breaks. In urban areas, impervious surfaces such as roads and sidewalks do not allow water to infiltrate the ground.

Where Do They Strike?

Though flash flooding is possible everywhere, it is most common in smaller streams and creeks. This heavy rainfall turns them into raging torrents. As mentioned earlier, they can strike when heavy rain cannot infiltrate the ground. This means roads with lower elevation can see standing or even running water during a flash flood. Never walk or drive through running water!

How Can You Stay Safe?

The Red Cross recommends three steps to stay safe during a flooding event:

  • Build an Emergency Kit consisting of: water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, medication, and more
  • Have an Evacuation Plan and practice the plan to minimize confusion
  • Stay informed! Learn the community’s emergency response plan, plan routes to local shelters, and stay up to date on weather conditions

Follow these tips to stay safe! If you experience flooding in your Beachwood home, call the water damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast. We have the training, experience, and equipment to dry and restore any amount of damage. Call us today at (216) 464-4498 or visit our Website to begin getting your Valley View home to its previous condition fast!

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