Flooding Emergency Plan

What are the flood terms?

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

What should I do if flooding occurs in the building?

Stop using electrical equipment until repairs are accomplished and the area is dry.
Avoid standing water due to the potential for electrical shock.
Notify University Police.
In the case of flooding, the building supervisor (or in his/her absence, next alternate) will notify the Dean, Associate Dean, Assistant Deans, Unit Heads, and the Dean’s Office (297-6762 or 297-0349).
See Appendix C.1 regarding the “Equipment to be protected in event of a hurricane” to follow the same procedures in the event of a flood which includes which equipment should be unplugged or moved. (IMPORTANT: Equipment should only be unplugged prior to indoor flooding conditions. Once flooding occurs, equipment should not be touched due to the potential for electrical shock.)

What should I know about outdoor flooding?

Urban flash floods often occur in less than one hour.
Due to the relatively flat terrain across Florida, it is much more difficult to drain accumulated water.
In flood areas, it is difficult to judge water depth.
Water only inches deep can be next to water that is several feet deep.
As little as one foot of water can move most cars off the road. Just six inches of fast-moving water can sweep a person off his or her feet.

What should I do if I encounter flooding?