Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Preparation and Planning
Emergency managers must know the different watches and warnings issued for
flooding. These will assist in prompting actions needed to protect lives and the
public before, during, and after a flood event.
Flood Watch—Flooding is possible. Tune in to the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, commercial radio, or
television for information.
Flash Flood Watch—Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to
higher ground; listen to the NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or
television for information.
Flood Warning—Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacu-
ate, do so immediately.
Flash Flood Warning—A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot
immediately.
Another consideration that Emergency Managers must look into is getting their
communities involved in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP
is administered by the Flood Insurance and Mitigation Administration, which is a
component of the Federal Emergency management Agency (FEMA). The NFIP is
a voluntary program that encourages communities to adopt and enforce floodplain
management ordinances to reduce future flood damage. In exchange for participat-
ing in the program, the NFIP makes federally backed flood insurance available to
businesses, homeowners, and renters in the Community.
Damage due to flooding is
not covered in homeowners' policies. Flood insurance is a separate policy
.
Communities that are involved in the NFIP can also enroll in the Community
Rating System (CRS). The CRS is a voluntary incentive program that promotes
and recognizes community floodplain management and flood mitigation activities
that exceed the minimum NFIP standards. Communities exceeding the minimum
NFIP regulations can receive points that can equate out to reduced flood insurance
rates for the community. More information on the CRS can be found at http://
www.fema.gov/business/nfip/crs.shtm, or you can find the information via search
engine on the Internet.
Lightning
Description and History
Lightning is another one of the deadliest natural hazards in the United States.
Although lightning and the associated thunderstorms are most prevalent during
the summer months, they can strike year round. During the past 30 years, an aver-
age of 58 people have been killed annually by lightning strikes.
6
Hundreds more
are injured. Although this natural hazard is more likely to affect a local area, it still
