spring weather brings on flooding conditions
March 8, 2010
The spring and summer are typicall the most favored season of the year. It brings good weather that allows people to have barbeques and go to beaches. This season makes it great for people that have been stuck inside from winter to get out of the house and take vacations. As nice as this season is it can also bring the worst storms of out of all the seasons. Strong storms can form resulting is flooding that can cause intense damage to communities. Flooding is the most common and devastating disaster to occur.
Large storms can create flash flooding which can hit communities in minutes with devastating force. In the emergency of flash flooding if there is time make sure that important documents and personal items are moved to upper levels of the home. If there isn’t enough time to gather items get to higher grounds as quick as possible. In some case the location of a home can put it at risk during stormy weather. If homes are located near a body of water such a lake or river heavy rains can cause water levels to raise leading to floods. Intense floods can cause erosion and damage properties. Excessive amounts of rain can also cause mud slides. Mudslides start off slow, but can pick up speed with tremendous force in an instant. These mudslides can sweep away homes and vehicles. Heavy rains can overflow drainage systems flooding homes and other properties. Flood waters can be backed up into basements and crawlspaces. These overflowing waters can back up sewage waters in which can lead to sewage damages. Heavy rains can also flood streets making hectic difficult driving conditions. Excessive amounts of rain and high winds can also damage roofs leading to water damaged attics. Clogged gutters can allow rain runoff to puddle around the foundation of the home which can lead to a water damaged basement. If properties are damaged by water it creates a higher risk of mold forming. In the event homes or business are damaged by water it is important to check if mold have formed. Mold can form and spread within forty-eight hours of a water loss.
It is important to be safe and aware during severe storms that can pose a threat of flooding occurring. Watch the television or listen to a radio to keep updated on a storm. Remember if you have to go into flood waters go through standing waters and not moving waters. Also test the security of the land with a sturdy stick or pole to ensure the ground is safe to walk on.
