Flash Floods

In recent history, flash floods are typically the No. 1 thunderstorm-related killer in the United States.

About 140 people die every year as a direct result of flash flooding and floods. Flash floods can occur as the result of heavy rains falling over a relatively short period of time, usually only a few hours or less.

They can also be caused by ice jams on rivers or even a dam or levee break. The sudden buildup of water can cause a large crest of water to move quickly downstream wiping out mostly everything in its path.

Flash floods are capable of rolling boulders, tearing out trees and destroying buildings quickly with little or no warning. Flooding is considered one of the most common and widespread of all natural disasters. They can occur anywhere, and Wisconsin is certainly not immune from this type of disaster. Wisconsin has many landmarks, both man-made and natural that make these areas more susceptible to flash flooding. For instance, Wisconsin has many old earthen dams which are getting weaker every year.

If one of these dams were to break the areas around them would be very susceptible to flash flooding. For safety/s sake find out if there is an earthen dam in your area. Flash flooding due to ice jams is very common in Wisconsin since Wisconsin usually has long and cold winters and rivers almost always freeze over. A sudden wall of water released by an ice jam during a thaw can be extremely unpredictable and can happen very quickly.

Always monitor the situation in your local area. Flash floods kill dozens of people in their vehicles each year. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can move your vehicle and two feet of water is enough to float your vehicle.

Avoid flooded bridges and never drive through flooded roadways. turn around and go the other way. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers. When a flash flood is headed your way, you may only have seconds to save your life by the time you realize what may be happening. Abandon all personal property and flee to higher ground if a flash flood is approaching. any delay even for a second could be the difference between life and death. A flash flood watch is issued when a locality is prone to flash flooding or is threatened by very heavy rains. During a watch residents should be alert for signs of rising water.

Be prepared to flee to higher ground in a moments notice. it is possible that there will be no time for an additional warning. The national weather service issues a flash flood warning when a flash flood is occurring or is imminent in a specific locality. When a warning is issued get out of the danger area and to higher ground immediately. If you are planning to set up camp near a stream be sure to place your camp well above the stream level. It is also a good idea to plan an escape route in advance should a flood occur.

If you are in a steep valley or canyon do not try to outrun the flood...leave your equipment and personal belongings and climb to higher ground. Most importantly always monitor the weather conditions in your area.

If flash flooding is a threat where you are located, stay tuned to your local TV and radio stations and NOAA weather radio for the latest information on watches and warnings in your area. For additional severe weather information and up to date forecasts and warnings please visit the NWS Web site here

SOURCE: NWS

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