Flooding is one of the most common and costly natural disasters in Virginia. Just a few inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and one foot of water can carry away a vehicle. Flood Awareness Week is a reminder to understand your risk and prepare before heavy rain arrives. Virginia Flood Awareness Week: March 8-14 Find more information on the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s website.
Know the Flood Risks - Virginia can experience: Flash flooding from heavy rain River and stream flooding Urban flooding due to poor drainage Coastal flooding in tidal areas
Flooding can happen quickly — sometimes within minutes. 🚗 Turn Around, Don’t Drown ✔️ Never drive through flooded roadways ✔️ Do not walk through moving water ✔️ Just 6 inches of water can knock you down ✔️ 12 inches of water can float a vehicle
If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and find another route. 🏠 Before a Flood Know if you live in a flood-prone area Sign up for local weather alerts Prepare an emergency kit Keep important documents in a waterproof container Review evacuation routes in your area
⚠️ During a Flood
Move to higher ground immediately Avoid basements if water is rising Disconnect utilities if instructed to do so Follow guidance from local emergency officials
Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
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OCI March 2026
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