What to Do During a Flash Flood | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

11/29/2023 (Permalink)

The aftermath of flash floods can be disastrous. That’s why SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is Here to Help®. Contact us now!

Our community is not known for heavy and frequent rainstorms, which is actually why we are more likely to suffer from flash flooding situations from time to time. If we are going through a drought, the ground gets really hard and dry and cannot keep up with any heavy rain that falls. 

If the ground can’t absorb the water, it will back up onto streets and flow through our community and into basements with ease. 

While flash flooding situations certainly can be scary, you can prepare for them to avoid serious damage! Incorporate these tips into your preparations the next time a flash flood warning is issued. 

Preparing for the Water

Stay connected to the local authorities and listen to the daily forecasts so you are always in the know. If a flash flood warning is issued or we are predicted to get a lot of rain in a short amount of time, that should be your signal to start preparing your property and home. 

Clean up your yard to remove anything that could easily be swept away by the water. Outdoor lawn equipment, yard tools and even children’s toys should be taken inside or stored in the garage, and consider pulling your car into the garage as well. Even just a few inches of fast-moving water can sweep away objects and damage your car.

Tie down the things that can’t be brought inside like trampolines, grills and patio furniture, and then head inside to get your house ready. Remove anything fragile or sentimental from the lowest level of your home and pull things away from the wall in case water starts leaking from your ceiling. Locate your emergency kit, and find a safe location on a higher level to ride out the storm. 

Dealing With Floodwater

If your home does start to flood when the storm comes to town, stay calm and avoid the area while the water is rushing in. Eventually the storm will move on and you will be able to assess the damage. 

Avoid walking through the water, since floodwater can contain toxic chemicals, storm runoff and even sewage. Get us on the phone right away, and take photos of any damage you see. These images will become a great starting point for your insurance company. If you must walk through the damage, wear appropriate clothing that will protect your skin. 

Once we arrive, we will get right to work extracting the standing water and addressing any structural damage that you suffered as a result of the water. Water can easily warp floors, ruin walls and soak through ceilings and can make your home dangerous to live in. We can tear down compromised sections of your home and rebuild it completely. We will make sure every inch of lingering moisture is removed and your home is returned to its pre-flood state as quickly as possible.

Call us immediately if you suffer from flood damage this season. Contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms for quick assistance.