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Flood

Flood waters

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states.

However, all floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over a period of days. Flash Floods can develop quickly. City streets can become rivers in seconds.
Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside
a defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.

Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks,
culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appears harmless in dry weather can flood.

Specific information on what to do Before, During and After a Flood can be found at: http://www.ready.gov/floods.

Additional Resources