Flash floods are a dangerous and often deadly phenomenon that can strike unexpectedly, and Georgia is not immune to their impact.
All rivers in Georgia face the risk of flash flooding, though certain areas are more susceptible than others.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Fulton County stands out as the region with the highest risk of flooding along rivers and streams, while counties like Gordon, Chattooga, Cobb, Cherokee, DeKalb, and Carroll fall into the moderate risk category.
Recent tragic events in central Texas serve as a cautionary reminder of the force of water and the rapid onset of flash flooding.
In a devastating incident over the Fourth of July weekend, historical flooding in central Texas claimed the lives of more than 120 people, including 27 individuals associated with a long-standing Christian summer camp for girls.
The National Weather Service reported that the Guadalupe River experienced a staggering rise of 26 feet within just 45 minutes of the storms beginning last Friday.
This alarming situation highlights the inherent dangers of flash floods, particularly in regions like the Texas Hill Country, which are naturally predisposed to such occurrences due to the dry, compacted soil that prevents rain from being absorbed, leading to rapid runoff.
Flash floods typically arise from heavy downpours in a short duration—often less than six hours—according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
These floods can materialize in minutes or hours after rainfall or occur as a result of structural failures, such as levee or dam breaches, or sudden water releases from ice or debris jams.
To ensure safety during potential flooding, it is crucial to pay attention to flood watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
Flood advisories indicate that flooding is possible, while a flood watch means conditions are ripe for flooding to occur, though it does not guarantee it will.
A more urgent flood warning signifies imminent danger in a specific area, prompting immediate action to protect oneself and family from potential harm caused by flash floods.
In light of recent flooding events, officials advise staying off the roads when flooding is imminent.
If you encounter a flooded roadway or barriers, refrain from driving or walking through floodwaters, as hidden hazards may lurk beneath the surface.
Just six inches of flowing water can cause loss of vehicle control, while floodwaters may carry harmful chemicals, bacteria, and debris, including downed power lines.
Other important safety tips include avoiding bridges over fast-moving water, as they can be swept away without warning.
If swept away while in a vehicle, stay inside and work to get to the roof if water begins to rise inside.
When at home, evacuate if local authorities issue directives to do so.
If evacuation proves impossible, seek the highest ground in the building.
It’s crucial to avoid closed attic spaces, as they may lead to entrapment by rising waters.
In Texas, a flood watch was initially issued by the National Weather Service at around 1 p.m. Thursday, with subsequent flash flood warnings following throughout the night.
At 4:15 a.m., a flash flood emergency was declared, urging residents to seek higher ground immediately.
Despite the devastation, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that local and federal weather services had issued timely warnings to residents in Kerr County, Texas, prior to the flooding.
The National Weather Service’s Austin-San Antonio forecasting office reported adequate staffing levels on Thursday, providing approximately three hours of lead time before the floods, with warnings labeled as early and consistent.
However, concerns have been raised regarding staffing shortages at the National Weather Service offices, with two critical positions unfilled in the San Antonio office, which has implications for coordination and communication during emergencies.
Tom Fahy, the legislative director for the National Weather Service Employees Organization, highlighted difficulties stemming from two key vacancies—one pertaining to the warning coordination meteorologist responsible for media updates.
While two employees were temporarily in these roles, independent meteorologists, and a retired NWS official acknowledged that the warnings, given the available real-time data, were timely and accurate.
Meteorologist Chris Vagasky noted the importance of ensuring the dissemination of warning messages reaches the public, emphasizing that this is a crucial factor in preventing loss of life during such emergencies.
image source from：patch
