Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.
However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. But flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.
Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water 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. Every state is at risk from this hazard.
Information for Families
- Basic Emergency Supply Kit
- Evacuation Guidelines
- Evacuation tips
- Family Emergency Contacts
- Pets and Emergencies
- A Flood of Emotions
- Caring for important papers
- Hazardous Materials and Flooding Do Not Mix
- Helping Children Through the Flood
- Is Home-Frozen Food Safe to Use
- Salvaging After Flooding
- Salvaging Food After a Flood
Information for Farmers
- Preparing to evacuate your farm
- Flooded Farm Vehicles and Equipment
- Flooded Pesticides
- Protecting livestock during a flood
- Reconditioning Flooded Farm Implements
Information for Homeowners and Renters
- Steps to reduce flood and water damage
- Basements May Flood if Drainage is Poor
- Reduce Flooding from Drains
- Septic Systems and Flooding
- Sump Pump Questions
- Avoiding Groundwater Damage to Homes
- Cleaning and Repairing Flooded Basements
- Dry Out Before Rebuilding
- Drying and Repairing Walls
- First Entry of a Flooded Home – Precautions
- First Entry of a Flooded Home
- Flood-Damaged Furniture and Appliances
- Flood-Damaged Walls, Ceilings, and Floors
- Floods-Drying Out
- How To Make Temporary Structural Repairs
- Restoring Heating Systems After a Flood
- Salvaging After Flooding
- Flooding: Excess Rain and Basements
- Hazardous Materials and Flooding Do Not Mix