What You Should Know: Flood Safety

KTSW News Department

According to the National Weather Service, a flash flood warning has been issued for Hays,  County on October 30, 2015 until 1:15p.m.

Hays Resources:

Hays County Emergency Management is closely monitoring the situation to determine what county response might be needed.

According to Hays County Communications Coordinator:

“In Hays County, which is still recovering from the Memorial Day weekend floods, a number of low water crossing sensors remain out of service. Sensors at low-water crossings at Wayside Drive, CR 1492, Hidden Valley Road, Little Arkansas Road, Post Road (which is closed due to bridge damage), Uhland Road, Bell Springs Road and Trautwein Road are not functioning; however, Hays County Transportation Department crews will stage barricades at those locations and be prepared to close off access if needed. Take extra care when approaching any low-water crossing. As always, never enter any low-water crossing if water is over the road or appears about to go over the road, and never go around barricaded roads – turn around, don’t drown.”

All emergency information will be posted to HaysInformed.com

State Resources:

Governor Greg Abbott has activated the Texas State Operations Center. Abbott has also approved the use of state resources, that have been prepared for immediate deployment if necessary. Abbot encourages Texans to monitor and  prepare for severe weather throughout the state, emphasizing strong storms and heavy rain can create dangerous flash flooding. Several state agencies will continue to monitor weather conditions and maintain contact with the National Weather Service.

According to Abbott, current resources available include:

Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): Texas Highway Patrol personnel and aircraft are activated and will provide assistance as needed, including rescue efforts.

2-1-1: Personnel will be monitoring school late openings, closures, and providing information to callers as needed.

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD): Game Wardens in all regions of the state are on alert for the possibility of flash flooding/water rescue events and deployment.

Texas Military Forces (TMF): TMF is providing aircraft, high-profile vehicles, and personnel to support flooding-assistance efforts in impacted areas.

Texas Task Force 1 (TTF1): Activated and ready with boat rescue squads for rapid deployment.

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): TxDOT crews are prepared to respond to flooding conditions with barricades, water pumps and heavy equipment.

Tips from Ready.gov:

Before:

–Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.

-Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.

-Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.

-If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.

-More:

–What to do before a flood.

During:

-Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

-If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.

-Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.

-If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.