Know the types of flood risk in your area. Remember, flooding can happen anywhere, even outside of a floodplain.
Make a plan for your household so that you and your family know what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding.
Build a "Go Kit" of the supplies you will need if you have to quickly evacuate your home.
Sign up forCharMeck Alerts to receive timely and accurate emergency information, including updates on flooding.
Depending on where you are, go to the safe location that you have identified. If you are not able to shelter in place or with family, go to a public shelter.
Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.
If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
Do not walk or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
Avoid driving except in emergencies.
Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water.
Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris.
These safety tips are courtesy of Ready.gov.
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Did you know that traditional homeowner and renter insurance policies do not cover flooding? Luckily, the National Flood Insurance Program is available to all (even if you don’t live in a floodplain). Please remember, there is typically a 30-day waiting period after you purchase. Learn more at Floodsmart.gov.
CRS Flood Insurance Discounts
National Flood Insurance Risk Rating 2.0- Rate Explanation Guide
You can locate the latest rainfall and creek data throughout the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County by visiting the Flood Information Notification System or FINS. This system alerts local fire, police, emergency management and MEDIC to the threat or actual danger of flooding. It is a partnership involving the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County and the US Geological Survey. Across the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, there are 71 rain gauges that collect rainfall data. Forty-six of these gauges send warnings to emergency responders. Our area also has 52 stream gauges that collect information. Fourteen send warnings to emergency responders when issues arise.
FINS questions? Contact:
Joshua McSwain
IT Project Manager
704.336.4918
Joshua.McSwain@MeckNC.gov
When flooding occurs, Turn Around, Don't Drown
Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles
Buy flood insurance
Remember to check your storm drains
Avoid rushing water
These two humorous, yet informative 30-second videos feature an overzealous driving instructor named Pam teaching her students the importance of "Turning Around" when approaching floodwaters. 30-Second Videos
Pam reminds you why to Turn Around, Don't Drown
How to turn around when approaching floodwater
Check out these helpful resources to ensure you return home safely after a flood. Documents last updated in Fall 2020.
After A Flood - Important Phone Numbers
Requirements for Repairing After a Flood
Water Damaged Electrical Requirements
Generators
Guidelines for Cleaning Up After a Flood
Residential Permits Quick Guide 2019
Evaluating Water-Damaged Electrical Equipment Guide
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services Floodplain Flash Newsletter
Floodplain Development and Regulations
National Weather Service page for the Charlotte Region
FEMA Floodplain or Community Floodplain?
Advice for Real Estate Buyers
Is Your Property In The Floodplain?
John Wendel
Sr. Communications Specialist, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services
980.314.3208
John.Wendel@MeckNC.gov
Alyssa Dodd, City of Charlotte
Communications Manager, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services
704.942.5860
Alyssa.Dodd@charlottenc.gov