In addition to funding projects across the Chehalis Basin to mitigate the impact of flooding, the Chehalis Basin Strategy also works to get residents connected to resources that can help prevent, reduce or repair flood damage.
During the rainy season, those of us in the Basin know that we need to take action now — before flooding hits — to protect our communities and properties. Here are seven key resources to help you get prepared:
1. Sign up for our flood preparedness webinar today, Nov. 30
The webinar is from 6 to 7 p.m. titled, “Be Aware, Be Prepared: Flood Risks and Resources.” Learn about assessing your flood risk, as well as the resources and assistance available to protect yourself and your property from flooding. This will be offered live in both English and Spanish
2. Read the “Be Aware, Be Prepared guidebook.”
This guidebook is an overview to help familiarize residents and business owners in the Chehalis Basin with actions you can take to protect yourself and your property from flood damage. It covers the three most important things you can do about flooding:
Know when a flood is coming.
Protect your property.
Carry flood insurance.
3. Know when a flood is coming
Sign up for the Chehalis River Basin Flood Warning System to receive flood alerts, emergency updates, and real-time flood inundation maps during an emergency. You can also view a training webinar on how to understand and use the many features of the Flood Warning System.
4. Carry flood insurance
Flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or from private insurance companies protects you and your family financially if a flood damages your home, business or belongings. If you’ve been considering it, now is the time, as most new policies have a 30-day waiting period to go into effect.
5. Protect your home or business
The Chehalis Basin Strategy and its partners can help you protect your home or business. Get in touch for a free consultation to:
Discuss what you can do now to protect your property, including building elevations and retrofits like flood vent installations.
Discuss how to flood proof your property while making repairs or improvements.
Schedule a property visit to review your situation and alternative flood protection measures.
Learn more about sources of funding you may be eligible for to protect your building and valuable items from flood damage.
6. Understand flood risk terminology
When flooding is currently happening (or may occur soon), the National Weather Service (NWS) issues flood warning, advisories, and watches. It’s helpful to know the differences between these types of alerts:
Flood Watch = Be Prepared: A Flood Watch is issued when weather conditions make it likely that a flood will occur. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Flood Advisory = Be Aware: A Flood Advisory is issued when minor or nuisance flooding is occurring or imminent. If caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.
Flood Warning = Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or already happening. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground.
Flash Flood Warning = Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning warns of a sudden violent flood that can take only hours or even minutes to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain. If you are in a flash flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground.
7. Protect livestock and other animals
If you own livestock or other animals, think ahead to make sure they stay safe.
