How to Survive a Flood in Your Area:

If you’re reading this, you either live somewhere that floods could happen… or they already have. I’m going to be real with you—floods are one of the most underestimated disasters out there. They don’t always come with a lot of warning, and they can turn deadly fast. So, let’s talk about how they work, what you need to watch for, and exactly how you can make it through.

How Floods Work (and Why They Can Be So Deadly)

Floods aren’t just “a lot of water.” They’re nature’s way of saying, “I’m in charge now.” They happen when more water comes in than the ground, rivers, or drainage systems can handle. That could be from:

• Heavy rain that doesn’t stop.

• Hurricanes or tropical storms pushing water inland.

• Snow melting faster than the rivers can handle.

• Dams or levees breaking.

Here’s the part people forget: floodwater is not clean. It’s full of debris, chemicals, and sometimes sewage. It’s also heavy and powerful—just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and two feet can sweep a car away like it’s a toy.

What You Need Before the Flood Comes

If you wait until the water’s at your doorstep, you’re already behind. You need your gear ready now.

• Emergency Go-Bag – Think waterproof backpack with the basics: food, water, flashlight, first aid kit, extra clothes, important documents in waterproof bags, and any meds you need.

• Portable Water Filter – If tap water gets contaminated, you’ll need a way to make it safe.

• Battery or Hand-Crank Radio – Floods can knock out cell service, so you’ll need updates the old-fashioned way.

• Cash – ATMs and card readers might not work.

• Sturdy Boots & Gloves – Floodwater hides sharp objects and debris.

If a Flood Warning Hits – Here’s What to Do

This is where a lot of people panic. You’re not going to be one of them.

1. Get to Higher Ground Immediately – Don’t wait. Water rises faster than you think.

2. Never Walk or Drive Through Moving Water – I don’t care if it “doesn’t look deep.” It only takes one wrong step to disappear.

3. Turn Off Utilities – If you have time, shut off gas, electricity, and water to avoid fires and electrocution.

4. Listen to Authorities – Evacuation orders aren’t suggestions. If they say go, you go.

5. Watch for Secondary Hazards – Landslides, sinkholes, or even more flooding can follow.

If You’re Caught in It

Worst-case scenario—you’re surrounded by water. Here’s how you keep yourself alive.

• Find Something That Floats – Doors, barrels, even large plastic bins can save you.

• Avoid Flood Currents – If you’re in moving water, try to angle toward stable ground, not fight the current head-on.

• Don’t Drink the Water – It’s contaminated. Stay away from it as much as possible.

• Signal for Help – Bright colors, waving fabric, or a flashlight at night can make the difference.

After the Flood – Stay Smart

Surviving the flood is only half the battle. Once the water’s gone:

• Don’t go back inside until it’s declared safe.

• Avoid downed power lines.

• Wear gloves and boots for cleanup—floodwater residue is nasty.

• Throw out any food or drink that touched floodwater.

Floods don’t care how tough you are or how long you’ve lived in your area—they can take out entire neighborhoods in hours. But if you understand how they work, prepare now, and stay calm when they hit, you’ll not only survive… you’ll be the one helping others get through it too.