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In urban areas, where the flood plain has been paved over with buildings, roads and parking lots, torrential rains can result in flash flooding because the water cannot be absorbed quickly enough by the remaining open areas.
Unfortunately, the Department of Emergency Services spokesman observed, many deaths in flash flooding situations occur because warnings are not heeded. The beliefs that “It can’t happen to me” or “There’s always time to wait it out” are common to all potential natural disasters, and flash floods are no exception, he said.
The National Weather Services issues two types of advisories when there is a threat of heavy rains or snow melts. A flash flood WATCH is issued to alert residents that weather conditions are favorable for flash flooding. This means flooding may occur and people should be prepared to take emergency action.
A WARNING is issued when flash flooding is occuring or is imminent. By the time a WARNING is issued, residents of affected areas may have only minutes to prepare for the water.
The spokesman noted that weather service bulletins, broadcast 24 hours a day on several frequencies, are always accompanied by specific information about the areas affected and the times during which the warnings are in effect.
Residents often ignore flash flood warnings because they cannot actually see floodwaters. They look outside, see no immediate danger, no rushing waters, and do not feel threatened.
The danger, however, may be developing upstream, out of sight. Most longtime residents of areas prone to flash floods can tell harrowing tales of flash floods which
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