Heavy rainfall in a short period of time can lead to flash floods. Urban areas that lack adequate drainage are particularly at risk. What does a flash flood look like, how does it occur, and how to deal with its consequences? We explain.
The Genoese low Boris, which has come to Poland from southern Europe, is bringing heavy and torrential rain. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has issued first, second and third, or the highest, level warnings. A significant area of ​​Poland has also been declared RCB alert.
In some places, as much rain can fall in four days as normally falls in half a year. IMWM reported that “this situation may bring flash floods.”
How a flash flood is created
– Flash flooding is associated with very intense rainfall, most often of a storm nature, where a lot of water falls on a small area – explained Jan Szymankiewicz, a hydrologist from IMWM. As he noted, “urbanized areas are most at risk of flash flooding, where water drainage is hindered due to the structure of the terrain”.
Floods of this type also often affect lower-lying areas and valleys, where masses of water flow down from the mountains through rivers and streams. They also occur in housing estates that have been built on floodplains, and improper maintenance of drainage facilities may also be among the causes.
How a flash flood is created TVN24
The period in which the water rises usually lasts from 30 minutes to two hours. A water level of 15 centimeters can be a major threat, especially for those in cars. On a street flooded to this level, a car begins to lose control and it is more difficult to control the vehicle. It is worth leaving the car as soon as possible and taking shelter in a safe place.
When the water level reaches about 60 cm, a parked car can already be carried away by the flood. When the water reaches a height of several dozen centimeters, it also poses a very big danger to people moving on foot. Water flowing at a speed of about 15 kilometers per hour has the force of a wind blowing at hurricane speed, so it can easily carry away a walking person.
What to do when we encounter a flash flood?
- do not drive onto flooded roads;
- move very carefully;
- climb as high as you can;
- do not approach electrical appliances outside the home;
- check the ground when crossing through water;
- If you need help, inform the services where you are.
During a flash flood, be careful of:
- downed high-voltage lines;
- Spilled liquids
- washed out road surfaces;
- sharp objects on the ground;
The Government Security Centre reminds that in the event of a flood threat, listen to messages about the threat and how to proceed on local radio or television, move valuables to upper floors of the building, move vehicles from the property to non-threatened areas, secure the building and prepare sandbags, and ensure that your mobile phone is fully charged at all times.
Safety rules during floods and inundationsRCB
Main image source: TVN24