How to Behave in a Flood

The tremendous force and utter suddenness of floodwaters represent a real danger to both human and animal life (by drowning, after being trapped in an innocent-seeming flood wave). Rescue units throughout the world, using rubber dinghies and other special equipment, are often called on to help those trapped by floods. Roads and buildings, too, are liable to extensive damage caused by flooding. It also becomes very dangerous to remain in such locations and to try to move through them.

Flooding, like earthquakes and fires, strike the home front without prior warning.

It is recommended that every home prepare an emergency bag to serve such an event too, either because it will be impossible to leave home due to the flooding, or because it will be necessary to evacuate. Note that it is recommended to seal in plastic all items that might be damaged by moisture (such as documents, clothing, etc.) in the emergency bag, so that the items in the bag are useable also in a flood. In case of travel to a flood-prone area, it is imperative to prepare ahead of time, to come equipped according to the directions of authorized organizations, and to inform the local Control and Rescue Units of your presence by calling the nature hotline (operations room at the Society for Preservation of Nature in Israel) at 02-6233221.

Note! Our ability to forecast flooding is very limited because there is no direct relationship between the area of rainfall and the flood area. The flood wave masses in one location but is liable to flow to a location that is totally dry and free of clouds, and surprise the unwary.

Seeing the flooding with water of an area that is normally dry within a short period of time. Most flooding is caused by rainfall, and occasionally by storms, earthquakes, and rivers overflowing their banks.

Flooding at or near Home:

In the event of flooding or a flood warning in the neighborhood, listen to the media for updates and directions. It is absolutely forbidden to enter the flood area. Rescue forces are properly drilled and equipped to assist those who are trapped.

In the event that the flood wave has spread through your location:

• Try to reach a high place and to distance yourself as much as possible from the flooding.
• Try to hold onto something stable that is not affected by the surge.
• If you are not alone, try to stay together or at least to maintain eye-contact.
• Try to mark and report your location to security forces.