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Flooding

Flooding is Rhode Island’s number one natural disaster.  Floods can develop slowly during an extended period of rain, or in a warming trend following a heavy snow. Flash floods can occur quickly, even without any visible signs of rain. It's important to be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, but particularly if you are in a low-lying areas.  Even a very small stream or dry creek bed can overflow and create flooding.

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a flood hazard:

  • Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
  • Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately. 

Find out if your home is at risk for flood by visiting www.floodsmart.gov. Elevate your furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk. Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider if you need additional coverage.

Call 401-680-8000 for information on free sandbags to protect your property from flooding. Avoid lower elevation streets, drainage channels and other areas that may flood.

Tune to local Radio or TV channels for emergency advisories and instructions.

 

  • During a severe thunderstorm, seek indoor shelter immediately.
  • If flooding is likely, and time permits, move valuablehousehold possessions to the upper floors of your home.
  • If water has entered a garage or basement, do not walk through it – it may contain hazardous materials.
  • Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you must walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away. Attempting to move a stalled vehicle in flood conditions can be fatal.
  • Stay clear of water that is in contact with downed power lines.
  • Do not allow children to play around high water, storm drains or any flooded areas.

Department of Public Works:
call 2-1-1 or 401-421-7740
 
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The framework for this website is provided to local governments at no charge as a courtesy of the San Francisco Department of Emergency Management. Visit San Francisco's original 72hours.org here. To contact us, please write at: contactus.oes@sfgov.org.