Snow and ice can create beautiful landscapes, but they can also increase flooding risks. Let’s go over some of the flooding risks everyone should know about this winter so that communities, homeowners, and business owners can protect themselves during the winter months.
Snowmelt
As temperatures rise and snow melts, water accumulation in low-lying areas and along rivers can lead to flooding. Mountainous regions are most affected by heavy snowfall in the winter, resulting in flooded drainage systems.
Ice Jams
Frozen bodies of water pose many risks. Once ice breaks, the chunks create barriers that cause water levels to rise. Areas where rivers or streams freeze during winter are prone to ice jams. They can worsen when melting ice becomes lodged against obstacles like bridges or bends in a waterway.
Frozen Ground
When the ground is frozen, it can’t absorb water, leading to water accumulation and potential flooding. Communities that experience coastal storms during the winter are the most at risk because these storms bring high winds, intense tides, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding.
Urban Flooding
Flooding also threatens urban areas. Heavy rain or melting snow can clog city drainage systems because they are not big enough to handle high volumes of water. Cities with outdated drainage infrastructure have an increased risk of flooding.
Preparing for Winter Flooding: Homeowners, Businesses, and Communities
After learning these risks, ensure your community is prepared for winter floods.
Homeowners
Homeowners can protect their properties by sealing cracks in their home’s foundation, installing water-resistant window well covers, and regularly checking their sump pump to ensure it works properly. They should also store valuable items on the second story or in the attic, if possible, to minimize property damage from flooding.
Business Owners
Business owners can improve drainage by waterproofing their properties. They should also ensure their employees know how to prepare for and respond to flooding if it occurs.
Communities
Communities must maintain storm drains and catch basins to prevent blockages and keep water flowing. Implement flood preparedness plans with early warning systems, and inform residents about protecting themselves and their properties.
Recovery After Winter Flooding
In the unfortunate event of a flood, document the damage by taking photographs and videos. Then, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim. Finally, hire a professional cleanup crew to handle water damage and related issues, such as mold growth.
Being prepared and staying informed on the risks associated with winter flooding is crucial to protecting your home, business, and community. This winter, equip yourself with the best knowledge and water remediation tools to address floods head-on. Be proactive to keep the flood waters at bay!
