FDEM Urges Caution Ahead of Widespread Rainfall with Potential for Flooding
Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) officials urge residents and visitors to use caution as an active weather pattern this week will result in several days of widespread showers and thunderstorms across the state.
The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur between Tuesday and Thursday, and total rainfall amounts through Friday could reach 1-3" in the Peninsula and 3-6" in the Panhandle Big Bend. These rain amounts could result in a flooding threat for low-lying and poor drainage areas, as well as some ponding on roadways. Some creeks and rivers may also see additional rises.
Residents and visitors should stay tuned to any local weather alerts such as Flood Watches or Warnings. In the event that flooding does occur in your area, follow the below guidelines for safety:
Flood Safety and Post Flood Clean-up
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Do not drive through or try to cross flooded roadways.
- Look before you step, as the ground and floors may be covered with debris. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.
- Avoid contact with downed power lines and electrical wires.
- Do not open manhole covers.
- Clean up debris to avoid injury and contamination.
- Operate chainsaws only in safe conditions (not in water soaked areas) if experienced in proper use.
- Lift heavy debris by bending knees and using legs to help lift.
- Wear shoes that cover the entire foot to avoid injury to the feet from glass, nails or other sharp objects.
- Be alert to wildlife (snakes, alligators, etc.) that may have been displaced as a result of flooding.
- Heed posted signage near affected area waterways.
- Follow beach warning flags and do not swim if the beach is closed.
Sanitation and Hygiene: Preventing Waterborne Illness
- Always wash your hands with soap and water that has been boiled or disinfected before eating, after toilet use, after participating in cleanup activities and after handling articles contaminated by floodwater or sewage.
- Flood water may contain fecal matter from sewage systems, agricultural and industrial waste and septic tanks. If you have open cuts or sores exposed to the floodwater, keep them as clean as possible by washing them with soap and disinfected or boiled water.
- Apply antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection. If a wound or sore develops redness, swelling or drainage, seek medical help.
Updated: Tuesday, July 31, 2018
