Horticulture Workshops, Conferences & News

Field Day
* September 10, 2010

Ag. Education Day
* September 9, 2010

Southwest Center FFA Workshop
* March 11, 2010

SW CTR Grazing Dairy

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Email: Southwestcenter@missouri.edu

Superintendent:
Dr. Richard Crawford - Bio
14548 Highway H
Mt. Vernon, MO 65712-9523
Phone: 417-466-2148
FAX: 417-466-2109
Email: crawfordr@missouri.edu

Flash Flooding Associated with Severe Weather

Flash floods can be potential killers and are associated with thunderstorms and even tornado outbreaks. According to the National Weather Service flash flooding in Missouri caused two deaths in 2006, two deaths in 2005, one death and one injury in 2004, and three deaths and seven injuries in 2003.

A Flash Flood Watch is issued when the National Weather Service expects rainfall to be heavy enough to produce flash flooding. The amount of rainfall needed to produce flash flooding is dependent on several factors. The most important of these are terrain, wetness of the soil and the stages of the affected rivers or streams.

A Flash Flood Warning is issued when flash flooding is imminent or already in progress. If you are in its path, move to higher ground immediately.

Thunderstorms may produce flash floods. Stay out of dry creek beds during thunderstorms. If you live near a river or stream, listen for flash flood warnings.

Flash Flood Safety Tips

• If you live in a floodplain, buy flood insurance.
• Make a photo inventory or your home or business and all contents for insurance purposes BEFORE severe spring weather comes to Missouri.
• Be aware of weather conditions and be prepared to evacuate if emergency personnel tell you to leave your home or business immediately.
• Be especially cautious at night. It's harder to recognize the danger then.
• Watch for rising water levels.
• Don't try to race a flood on foot. If you see or hear it, immediately move to higher ground.
• Don't try to drive through flooded areas. Abandon your vehicle if water begins to rise over the road, and head for higher ground.
• In flood prone areas, keep sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, and shovels on hand to protect your home.
• Stay away from downed power lines; they may land in flooded streets. Last summer, a Louisiana family of four was electrocuted when they tried to save the family dog that jumped into a flooded street with downed power lines in their front yard.

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agebb@missouri.edu