Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted. Keep first aid supplies on hand. Keep a NOAA Weather Radio, a battery-powered portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in working order. Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
Advanced warning provided by early detection is critical to saving lives.
Automatic flood detection systems are available commercially for flood-prone communities. The National Weather Service continuously broadcasts updated weather warnings and forecasts that can be received by NOAA Weather Radios sold in many stores. Average range is 40 miles, depending on topography. Your National Weather Service recommends purchasing a radio that has both a battery backup and a tone-alert feature which automatically alerts you when a watch or warning is issued. Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent take necessary precautions at once.