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Stay prepared during flood season

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GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  Spring is finally starting to make itself seen at Grand Forks, and although there is still snow on the ground, you can expect it to warm up in coming weeks.

But those warmer temperatures and melting snow bring the potential for flooding - a serious concern in northeastern North Dakota.

It is important to have a plan and to be prepared for weather-related hazards and natural disasters. The Emergency Management Flight has put together the following information to make sure you are informed and prepared.

What is a Flood?

A flood is an overflow of an expanse of water that submerges land. All floods are not alike. Some will develop quickly, such as flash floods, with little or no warning. Some will develop slowly over a extended period of rain, or in a warming trend following heavy snow.

How Does it Affect You?

The Red River that separates North Dakota and Minnesota flows north to Canada. When the ice and snow begins to melt, the river water begins to back up as it reaches frozen water in the north. This causes flooding in Grand Forks each year. This year, the National Weather Service has stated that potential for exceeding moderate and major river flood levels exists for the Red River based on above normal amounts of water in the current snowpack and seasonal forecasts of above normal precipitation.

Actions to Consider Before a Flood

Stay tuned to radio or television for updates. Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings signs as rain clouds or heavy rain. If your home is prone to flooding, move your furnace, water heater and electric panel to higher floors. Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into home drains. Construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building. Seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.

Actions to Consider During a Flood

Stay tuned to radio or television for updates. Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is a possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move. Do not walk through water more than 6 inches deep.

Actions to Consider After A Flood

Be careful in areas where floodwaters have receded. Watch for downed electrical lines and weakened roads and bridges. Stay out of flooded buildings and use caution when entering damaged structures as their foundations may have weakened. Avoid coming in contact with floodwater because it may be contaminated. If available, use gloves, and if not, wash your hands if they get wet. Discard any food that has come in contact with floodwater. Listen to news reports to learn if the community's drinking water is safe to drink. Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.

(Courtesy of the Emergency Management Flight)