How can I protect myself from a flood? Floods are one of the
most common hazards in the United States. Flood effects can be
local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large,
affecting entire river basins and multiple states. However, all
floods are not alike. Some floods develop slowly, sometimes over
a period of days. But flash floods can develop quickly,
sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of
rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water
that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away
most things in its path. Overland flooding occurs outside a
defined river or stream, such as when a levee is breached, but
still can be destructive. Flooding can also occur when a dam
breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods. Be aware of
flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you
live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam.
Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry
streambeds, or low-lying ground that