Flood Safety Preparedness Week Begins in Georgia

image description

Jamie Joyner

Civil Engineer

Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency recognizes Flood Safety Preparedness Week March 9-13. The week encourages Georgia residents and their families to prepare for flooding. 

Approximately 14 million people across the United States were impacted by flooding last year. In 2019, flooding accounted for 3 of the 14 nationally declared weather and climate change disasters with losses exceeding a billion dollars each.

Flood Safety Preparedness Week showcases a new tip each day to share information on the hazards, safety, and preparation for floods. Read the full press release and find more information and resources here

Why is this important?

Some important facts to be aware of: 

  • Just 2 feet of moving water can carry away a full-sized car. Over half of flood-related deaths occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood waters.
  • Most home insurance does NOT cover flooding
  • 1 in 4 flood insurance claims come from areas that are not considered high-risk

How can I find out more?

Additional information and resources about flood awareness, readiness and response from FEMA and Georgia agencies can be found at:

 

image description

Jamie Joyner, P.E., C.F.M., is a Civil Engineer in Atlanta.