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Are you prepared for a flood?
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Anywhere it rains, it can flood. And floods are Charlotte-Mecklenburg's most common—and costly— natural disaster.
Many of our floods are caused by heavy rain from thunderstorms, tropical storms and hurricanes.
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Flooding is common
Charlotte gets more rain each year than does Seattle. Yet we have fewer rainy days. More rain in less time means a greater chance of flash flooding.
Flooding is costly
Floods cost Charlotte-Mecklenburg residents more money than any other type of natural disaster.
Flooding is deadly
In the past 20 years, flooding has killed more people in Charlotte-Mecklenburg than tornadoes and lightning combined.
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Prepare for flooding: Build an "ARK"
Pay attention to flood watches and warnings.
Turn around, don't drown! 80% of flood deaths happen in vehicles.
Know if your property is in a Floodzone.
Remember that floodplain maps only show certain types of flood risks. Flooding can and does happen outside of mapped floodplains.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg is very prone to flash-flooding. If it rains hard enough, creeks naturally overflow their banks and low-lying areas of streets and yards will have standing water. Why does it flood?
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Part of what makes flooding dangerous is its unpredictability. Learn what to do before, during and after a flood.
Have an Emergency Supply Kit. Be ready to evacuate, or to move valuables and important documents to a safe, dry place.
Buy flood insurance. Only flood insurance covers flood damage.
Flood insurance myths and facts
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The cost of flooding See how much a flood could cost you, inch by inch. (National Flood Insurance Program)
100-Year Flood: Haven't we already had one this century? (USGS publication)
More information from:
the National Flood Insurance Program
North Carolina's Insurance Commissioner
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