What is a flash flood? It is rapid rise in creeks and streams, or serious urban flooding caused by heavy rain from thunderstorms, which poses a threat to life and property.
Scary statistics
- In Illinois, most flash floods occur in July and August and they often occur at night.
- Floods and flash floods result in more nationwide fatalities than any other storm hazard each year.
- About half of these fatalities occur in vehicles.
Tips to help save lives
- Don’t drive through flooded roads, especially if the water is moving rapidly. Flooded or washed-out roads are especially difficult to see at night. Remember, if you encounter a flooded road, “Turn around, don’t drown.”
- Don’t let children play near storm drains, creeks or flooded areas.
- If you live near a creek or stream, evacuate to higher ground if water rises rapidly or if a flash flood warning is issued.
Additional information from the National Weather Service is available online.
By Argonne’s Office of Emergency Management