NORTH CAROLINA, USA — The Triad is experiencing a higher risk of flooding as Tropical Storm Debby moves through the Carolinas.
Here are some tips from the National Weather Service to keep you and your family safe before, during and after a flood.
Before a Flood
- Create a communication plan with your friends and family
- Assemble an emergency kit to have enough food, water and medicine on hand at all times to last you at least 3 days
- Know your risk. Is your home, business or school in a floodplain? Where is water likely to collect on the roadways you most often travel? It's important to know the answers to these questions.
- Sign up for notifications so you stay up to date with the latest weather
- Prepare your home
- Use sandbags or other materials to protect our home from flood waters
- Contact your insurance company to purchase flood insurance
- Prepare your family/pets - pack in advance so you have the essentials for those you love
- Charge your essential electronics and make sure you have backup batteries and portable chargers on hand
- Leave. If your home is likely to be flooded, evacuate yourself! Take your pets with you or make arrangements to board them in a place far away from flood risk.
During a Flood
- Stay informed by listening to the radio or watching TV. Check social media for updates.
- Get to higher ground!
- Obey evacuation orders immediately. Lock your home and disconnect utilities and appliances if you have the time.
- Practice Electrical Safety - Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises--get out!
- Avoid flood waters - Don't walk through them. If you're trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if you can. Never drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade. Remember, TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN! The water may be deeper than it appears.
After a Flood
- Stay informed with your local news for updated information on road conditions, boil water advisories, utility updates, etc.
- Avoid flood waters as the standing water is likely to contain toxins and chemicals. There could be sharp objects in the water or the road could have collapsed.
- Avoid Disaster Areas - do not visit them. It could hamper rescue and emergency operations
- Heed Road Closed and Cautionary Signs - they're there for your safety, pay attention to them!
- Wait for the all-clear. Don't enter a flood-damaged home or building until you get the all-clear. When you do enter, be extremely careful as floods can cause collapse, the ceiling to fall, etc. Make sure the electrical system has been turned off and have a qualified electrician fix the wires.
- Contact Your Family and Loved Ones. Let them know you're okay so they can spread the word. You can also register with or search the American Red Cross’s Safe and Well listing.
WFMY News 2 will keep you updated as Tropical Storm Debby moves through the Triad.