Urgent Storm Advisory: What to Do While the Storm Hits and Flooding Is Imminent in North Carolina
As the storm system currently battering North Carolina intensifies, many residents are facing immediate threats of flooding, heavy rain, and strong winds. In moments like these, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to stay safe and protect your property. While prevention is key, knowing how to act during the storm can make all the difference.
At All About Insurance, we want to make sure you have the information you need to navigate this dangerous situation. Here’s what you should do right now if flooding and severe weather are imminent in your area.
1. Stay Indoors and Move to Higher Ground
If flooding is threatening your area:
-
Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. Winds and floodwaters can be deadly.
-
Move to the highest level of your home (but avoid the attic unless you have a way to signal for help). If you’re in a single-story building, move valuables and essential items to high places.
-
Keep an eye on rising water levels—especially if you’re in a flood-prone zone. Water can rise quickly and unexpectedly.
2. Avoid Floodwaters at All Costs
Floodwaters are deceptively dangerous and can hide many hazards, including electrical currents and debris.
-
Never attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Even just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and one foot of water can sweep away a vehicle.
-
Stay clear of rivers, creeks, or drainage ditches, as these can overflow quickly.
-
Turn off utilities like electricity and gas if you haven’t already, especially if water starts entering your home.
3. Monitor Weather Alerts and Stay Connected
Knowledge is your best tool in an active storm:
-
Keep a battery-powered radio or charged phone handy to monitor weather updates, emergency instructions, and evacuation orders. Reliable sources include the National Weather Service and local emergency broadcasts.
-
Stay connected with family and friends, but use phone calls sparingly to conserve battery life. Texting may be more effective in an emergency.
4. Be Ready to Evacuate Immediately
Flooding can become severe in a matter of minutes, so being ready to leave at a moment’s notice is essential:
-
If authorities order an evacuation, follow the instructions quickly and safely.
-
Take only essential items with you, such as your emergency kit, important documents, and valuables.
-
Never drive through flooded roads—turn around and find an alternate route, as floodwaters can hide washed-out sections of the road.
5. Keep Safe During Power Outages
Power outages often accompany storms and flooding:
-
Use flashlights instead of candles to prevent accidental fires.
-
Unplug appliances to avoid damage from power surges when electricity is restored.
-
If using a generator, make sure it’s placed outside and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
6. Protect Your Insurance Information
While the storm is happening, having access to your insurance details can save precious time later:
-
Keep your insurance documents close by or in your emergency kit.
-
Take note of your policy numbers and make sure you know how to quickly file a claim once the storm passes.
7. Stay Calm and Wait for the All-Clear
Storms and floods can be extremely stressful, but staying calm and focused on safety is the priority:
-
Do not attempt to leave until it’s safe to do so.
-
Continue to monitor the situation through weather alerts, and wait for authorities to announce when it’s safe to move or return home.
Remember, floodwaters can remain dangerous long after the rain stops. It’s important to take every precaution until the threat has completely passed.
At All About Insurance, we’re ready to assist you throughout this storm. Once the skies clear, we can help assess damage, guide you through the claims process, and ensure you get the support you need to recover as quickly as possible.
Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need help—we’re with you every step of the way.
