Know the difference and be ready
Heavy rain increases the risk of flooding and even flash flooding, especially in low-lying elevations and areas along lakes and rivers. When steady rain persists, flooding is always a possibility. During rainy season, be aware of flood warnings from the National Weather Service and Hillsborough County and take action.
What is the difference?
The National Weather Service describes Flood Alerts, Warnings, and Watches as follows:
- Flood Advisory: Be Aware. Minor flooding is possible and could be a hassle. Roads can get slick, or water may pool in low spots. It’s not dangerous yet but stay alert and use caution.
- Flood Watch: Be Prepared. Conditions are right for flooding to happen. It doesn’t mean it will flood, but it could. Be ready to act if the situation gets worse.
- Flood Warning: Take Action! Flooding is happening or about to happen. Don’t wait, move to higher ground, and avoid driving through water.
- Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A flash flood is happening or will happen very soon. These floods are fast and dangerous and can happen in minutes, even if it’s not raining where you are. Move to higher ground immediately.
The National Weather Service is now using Impact-Based Warnings to better explain the danger and help you decide how to respond to flash floods. Read the factsheet.
Be flood smart and know your risk
To protect yourself, understand the flood threats that could impact your home and neighborhood.
- What is the elevation of my home or business?
- Do I live in a low-lying area?
- Is my home or business in a special flood hazard area?
- Are there rivers or creeks nearby that flood frequently?
- Review flood maps for your area.
- Enter your address and get your overall flood risk at FloodSmart.gov.
Most importantly, heed all flood alerts, watches, and warnings and take action.
For information about repetitive flood loss areas, contact Hillsborough County Public Works at (813) 635-5400.
This storm season, stay safe with Hillsborough County. Sign up for HCFL Alert, Hillsborough’s emergency notification system. Visit the County’s social channels, @HillsboroughFL, and frequent the Stay Safe Page.