Severe Weather Preparedness

Flash Flooding Safety Rules

Flash floods and floods are the #1 storm related killer in Kentucky and across the United States.

• If Driving, DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH FLOODED AREAS! Even if it looks shallow enough to cross. The majority of deaths due to flooding are due to people driving through flooded areas. Water only one foot deep and displace 1500 pounds! Two feet of water can easily carry most vehicles. Roadways concealed by flood waters may not be intact.
• If caught outside, go to higher ground immediately! Avoid small rivers or streams, low spots, culverts, or ravines. Do not try to walk through flowing water more than ankle deep, as it only takes six inches of water to knock you off your feet. Do not allow children to play around streams, drainage ditches, or viaducts, storm drains, or other flooded areas.
• If ordered to evacuate or if rising water is threatening, leave immediately and get to higher ground.

Lightning Safety Rules

Lightning is the number two storm related killer. In Kentucky, more people are killed by lightning in an average year than tornadoes. Although severe thunderstorm warnings are NOT issued for lightning, you should move to shelter when thunder is heard as lightning can strike 10 to 15 miles away from where the rain is falling.

• If outside, go to a safe shelter immediately, such as inside a sturdy building. A hard top automobile with the windows up can also offer fair protection.
• If you are boating or swimming, get out of the water immediately and move to a safe shelter away from the water!
• If you are in a wooded area, seek shelter under a thick growth of relatively small trees.
• If you feel you hair standing on end, squat with your head between your knees. Do not lie flat!
• Avoid: Isolated trees or other tall objects, bodies of water, sheds, fences, convertible automobiles, tractors, and motorcycles.
• If inside, avoid using the telephone (except for emergencies) or other electrical appliances.
• Do not take a bath or shower during a thunderstorm.

Tornado/Severe Thunderstorm Safety Rules

• In a home or building, move to a pre-designated shelter, such as a basement.
• If an underground shelter is not available, move to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor and get under a sturdy piece of furniture. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outdoors.
• Stay away from windows.
• Get out of automobiles.
• Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car; instead, leave it immediately for safe shelter. Do not seek shelter in an underpass.
• If caught outside or in a vehicle, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands.
• Be aware of flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes and high winds causes most fatalities and injuries.
• Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes or high winds. You should leave a mobile home and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy building or storm shelter.

For more information, please contact the Estill County EMA/CSEPP office at (606) 723-6533 or visit these websites: www.estillcountyema.com ,www.kyem.ky.gov, www.nws.noaa.gov/om/severeweather/index.shtml