Local Flooding Possible From Isaac Remnants
The heavy rainfall will likely lead to localized flooding especially in low lying areas and ponding on road surfaces. The NWS says there is still quite a bit of uncertainty with where the heaviest rainfall will occur, but the U.S. 30 corridor and south is especially warned to be alert of the potential for heavy rain.
The recent drought and hard, dry ground conditions may increase the risk for flash flooding. Be especially watchful if you live areas that typically flood.
Some of the cities and towns included in the weather watch include Warsaw, Winona Lake, Plymouth, Columbia City, South Whitley, Bremen, North Manchester, Wabash, Rochester, Elkhart and Goshen.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security and local officials will monitor the situation and respond as necessary. IDHS advises the following precautions to stay safe during flooding conditions:
1. Monitor the weather conditions and listen for potential warnings.
2. If flooding occurs, get to higher ground.
3. Report flooded roads to the county sheriff’s department or highway department.
4. Never drive through flooded roadways (REMEMBER: Turn Around Don’t Drown).
5. Never drive around the barriers warning that a road is flooded.
6. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
How to prepare for flooding
Check your family’s emergency supply kit – Store enough food, water, medication and other essentials to take care of your family and pets for at least 72 hours.
Remember food safety – power outages may happen as a result of a storm or flooding. If your home loses power, help keep food safe by grouping items together in the freezer or storing them in a cooler.
Have a communication plan – be sure friends and family know how to contact you. Remember, sometimes text messages can get around network disruptions when a phone call cannot.
How to stay safe during flooding
Avoid walking or driving through any flooded areas – it takes only six inches of fast-moving flood water to knock over an adult and only two feet to move a vehicle.
Follow the directions of local officials – Evacuation orders come from local officials, so follow their guidance.
Keep up to date on local conditions – follow media reports from your area, or visit www.weather.gov (http://mobile.weather.gov on your phone).
Many Hoosiers remember that flooding from Hurricane Ike in September 2008 claimed the lives of 7 people, forced the evacuation of 5,000 people in Munster, IN and left 350,000 residents across the state without power.
The Indiana Emergency Operations Center is staffed 24 hours a day and in constant communication with local emergency officials.