The final day of Severe Weather Awareness Week in Iowa focuses on flood safety. 

According to the National Weather Service, preparedness is important for flood safety. Prior to a flood, diagnose your flood risk, whether or not you are located in a flood plain, where is water likely to collect? Where will you go if there is a flood? Authorities urge you to have a communication plan in advance of a disaster and to assemble an emergency kit. During a flood event, monitor local trusted news sources like KCII Radio or a NOAA weather radio, be prepared to leave flood-prone areas and relocate to higher ground, and follow evacuation instructions. 

Do not enter floodwaters in a vehicle or on foot. The NWS has coined the phrase “Turn around, don’t drown.” As little as 12-18 inches of water can wash away your vehicle, and it is hard to tell if the roadway beneath the water is intact. Six inches can sweep a person off of their feet.

Other hazards discussed this week included lightning, tornadoes, hail and wind. Find more information regarding hazards, preparedness and emergency kits by visiting the National Weather Service website.

The one to count on for up-to-the-minute severe weather coverage is KCII.