The dog days of summer are in full swing and the powerful summer thunderstorms are in full display. The flash flooding conditions of the northeast are a perfect reminder for us here in Louisiana that environmental conditions can change quickly.
By taking proactive measures and following essential guidelines, we can ensure the safety of ourselves, our teams, and our shared business interests. Here are some key tips:
1. Stay informed. Like other weather-related challenges, knowing what’s coming is important. It does not matter the way that you get your forecast; it is more important to just get it, although a good NOAA radio is not a bad investment.
2. Know your surroundings: Familiarize yourself and your team with the geographic features of your area, including flood-prone zones, low-lying areas, and drainage systems. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and take appropriate actions during a flash flood event.
3. Avoid flood-prone areas: If you encounter a flash flood warning or heavy rainfall, avoid driving or walking through flood-prone areas, including underpasses, bridges, and low-lying roads. Swift-moving water can be deceptive and can easily sweep away vehicles and pedestrians.
4. Seek higher ground: This may sound over-simplified, but if you are in an area prone to flash flooding, move to higher ground as soon as possible. Seek refuge on elevated floors of buildings or climb to higher terrain, away from riverbanks and streams.
5. Do not attempt to cross floodwaters: Never attempt to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. There is a mantra that a certain weather-focused station loves to repeat, but it applies here “Turn around don’t drown.” It is difficult to determine the depth and current strength, and as little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Vehicles can be swept away by as little as two feet of water.
Emergency preparations don’t have to be overly complicated. Apply a little common sense to keep you, your family, your business, and your employees safe. | 
