Flooding

Flooding is one of Orange County’s most likely disasters. Flash floods can strike any time with little or no warning, turning Orange County streets and freeways into rivers within seconds. Most flash flooding is caused by heavy rains concentrated over the same area and also from run-off from local hillsides and clogged storm drains. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death.

Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Evacuate immediately, if told to evacuate. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.
Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.
Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.

Flood Safety

EMERGENCIES

> Drought

> Hazardous Materials

> Power Outages

> Chemical Attacks

Learn more:

Get flood system inspection reports, river conditions and monthly drought updates at California’s Department of Water Resources.
Learn about flood programs, Santa Ana River Project and Orange County Flood Control District at Orange County Flood Control Division.
Follow recent national flooding and river news at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Find flooding readiness tips, flood hazard terms and ways to protect your home at Ready.gov’s Flood section.
Learn more about flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program.