Public affairs: Don’t let spring flooding leave you soaked by Mattison Holland
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Although it is said that April showers bring May flowers, the month of April also brings severe flooding. The months surrounding, and including April are some of the wettest months of the year. Although East Texans are used to droughts, during this season we have to adjust that mindset.
Knowing how to be prepared and cautious when it comes to possible flooding can be very helpful when you least expect it. The season of spring, the months of March, April, and May, receive the most precipitation out of all the seasons. This is because of the warmer temperatures; warmer air absorbs more moisture, which results in more rainfall.
Depending on where you live you probably know what roadways to avoid after heavy precipitation. Having an additional route to follow after a storm can come in handy. Picking an alternate route means you won’t be affected by the flooded roads and you’ll be able to continue to your destination without any impetuous troubles. With this in mind, you should always have an alternative rainy day course in your back pocket for whenever you might need it.
It’s important to know what kind of area you live in when it comes to understanding floods. For example, if you live in a low-lying area you are more susceptible to flooding than a house on higher ground. If you live in an area that has frequent rainfall and swamping you might consider flood insurance.
Some advice given by CBS-19 Tyler states ¨In some cases, sandbags can prevent floodwaters from entering your home. Purchase sandbags if you may need them, and be sure to fill them up ahead of time.¨ If there’s a high flood warning in your community, it’s vital that you evacuate so you aren’t in any immediate danger. According to what your local emergency management officials advise.
If you’re ever caught in a heavy thunderstorm you need to know the steps to take in order to make it through safely. One thing you can prepare is a disaster supply kit. Some things you’ll need in this kit are a 3-day supply of non-perishable food, a manual can opener, 1 gallon of water for each person, baby items if needed, and whatever you need for your pet(s).
For the first aid portion of this kit you’ll need any medications, an instant cold pack, band-aids, pain relievers, first-aid instruction booklet, etc. Make sure not to forget personal hygiene supplies, a flashlight, extra batteries, matches, a wireless battery phone charger, and a map just in case.
It’s important to stay informed of any downpours occurring in your area. This is especially needed when you have to stay in place and wait out the storm. Two ways you can stay updated on the latest news and storm broadcasts is by watching the local news channel on your phone or by following the National Weather Service (NWS) radio. The NOAA and NWS also have a website you can go to in order to see all the forecasts for East Texas and even the United States.
In the after effects of a flood sometimes the damage can be brutal. Be on the lookout for misplaced wildlife such as snakes, bats, etc, your home or flooded street might be where they have taken shelter. If you have to clean up some of the litter left behind by the storm CBS-19 reminds you to wear ¨sturdy shoes, long pants, long sleeves, and gloves when cleaning up.¨
It’s also appropriate to disinfect your home by wiping down counters and whatnot with Clorox or any other disinfectant. This will help rid your household of any unwanted germs leftover from the flood.
With the month of April and the season of Spring comes making preparations for floods and heavy rainfall. Living in East Texas requires being flexible with random weather adjustments. You never know when you’ll need to make last-minute arrangements for a flash flood warning.
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