JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Flood Safety Awareness
In the 1970s, '80s and '90s, inland flooding was responsible for more than half of the deaths associated with tropical cyclones in the United States. Hurricane Floyd (1999) brought intense rains and record flooding to the Eastern U.S. Of the 56 people who perished, 50 drowned due to inland flooding. Tropical Storm Alberto (1994) drifted over the Southeast United States and produced torrential rainfall. More than 21 inches of rain fell at Americus, Ga. Thirty-three people drowned and damage exceeded $750 million.
Ninety percent of all natural disasters in the U.S. involve flooding and 20 percent of flood insurance claims come from outside high-risk areas. It's important to be prepared for flooding no matter where you live but particularly if you are in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even a very small stream or dry creek bed can overflow and create flooding. There are three steps that every individual can take now to better prepare themselves and their families:
- Prepare an emergency kit
- Make a plan
- Be informed about your flood risk
For more information about flooding go to
www.floodsmart.gov.