Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Flooding

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — “Flooding can happen anywhere and it’s important to know your risk,” says Corinne Rizzo with Char-Meck Stormwater Services.

Drought conditions continue to build across the Carolinas this week, but it won’t always be that way. As we know, the weather around here can turn on a dime.

As summer storms and tropical systems start to creep back into our weather-wise forecast over the next several months, Char-Meck Stormwater Services will be busy making sure everything is flowing smoothly.

“Our operations teams are always going out to assess culverts and stream blockages, just to make sure all of our waterways are flowing free and clear,” Rizzo adds.

But you’ll have to do your part, too.

We say it all the time: turn around, don’t drown.

That’s for good reason – the #1 cause of avoidable death from severe weather in the Carolinas is drivers trying to make it through flooded roadways.

Just 6” of water is enough to knock a grown adult off their feet. A foot can float most cars, and 18” can easily sweep vehicles away if the flow is strong enough.”

Now is the time to make sure your property is storm-ready.

“You can prepare your home by clearing your gutters and your storm drains around your property to reduce the risk of localized flooding around your home,” says Rizzo.

And always remember:

Turn around, don’t drown.