The Severe Weather Awareness Week Topic for Wednesday is Floods with Crookston Firefighter Shane Heldstab. Heldstab explains that seasonal snowmelt flowing into the rivers, river flow blockage, and heavy spring and summer rainfalls can raise their levels and cause overland flooding on roadways and properties. He gave some tips on what people can do to prepare themselves and prevent property damage.
Floods are one of the most common natural hazards in Minnesota, especially in the spring, with seasonal snowmelt being one of the leading causes of flooding. Thankfully, floods like that tend to develop slowly, so the National Weather Service can warn the public about them, but flash floods can develop quickly due to heavy rains or ice dams breaking due to the warmer weather. With low-lying areas, or areas by a lake, river, behind a levy, or downstream from a dam, being at a much higher risk than others. When the National Weather Service issues a flood watch or warning, the Crookston Fire Department advises people to be prepared, seek safety by going to higher ground, and avoid flooded roadways.
Heldstab first recommended that everyone should prepare an Emergency Supply Kit, either by buying them preassembled at a store or by assembling one yourself or with your family. “We let our girls ahead and help us put together a preparedness kit.” Heldstab explained, “It gives us a chance to explain why we have what we have in there. From canned goods to flashlights that have LEDs.” Next, Heldstab recommended that everyone creates an overall emergency plan that you and your family can follow. “It’s one thing that is easy enough to create and share. So, if you have in-laws, relatives, or anyone else that’s in the community. If you create an emergency plan, let them know what it is, and help them with theirs if they don’t have one.” Heldstab explained, “The last place and time you want to deal with anything like this is the last minute. In an emergency, times of the essence, it’s easier to be prepared and deal with it rather than if you have to go off the shirttail.” Another addition Heldstab recommends is the purchase of a weather radio. Even though everyone has cell phones, cell service and internet connections may not be good enough to make calls or receive weather updates in the time of a crisis, especially if a cell tower is knocked down. Meanwhile, having a radio that people can tune into even in terrible weather is a great way to receive information on if more weather is coming or what is currently happening outside.
In terms of protecting your home and property from high waters and floods, especially in low-lying areas, Heldstab recommends having check-valves for basements and drain plugs for sewers to prevent the water from backing up into basements to avoid major damage to homes and property. He also recommends getting flood insurance from insurance companies, as property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. “Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider if you need that additional coverage,” Heldstab explained. He also recommends elevating things in basements like furnaces, water heaters, and anything that could be damaged by seepage.
If you are driving during overland flooding or a potential flash flood that washes across the road, Heldstab mentioned the National Weather Service’s campaign slogan for flood safety, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Saying that if you see the water going over the roadway, turn around and find an alternate path. “They say that 6 inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars, and flowing water is going to move that vehicle. There’s a lot of power behind that water.” Heldstab explains, “We have a river that runs through the community, and most people are aware of the potential energy there, so it’s the same with any type of moving water. Twelve inches of water can float most vehicles, so be safe, use common sense, and don’t drive through running water if it’s going over a roadway.” He also advises people to be aware of other hazards like downed powerlines or tree branches that could fall on the road, as they can cause injury to people and vehicles.
Heldstab informed the public to watch the rainfalls throughout the spring and summer and to keep up to date with the weather apps and physical forms of media like the radio and papers about any information of inclement weather as they will be your most reliable sour es. And only return to an area after a flood when it is indicated safe by the authorities.
