Flood Preparedness: Protecting Your Home and Belongings

From the coastal regions of Atlantic Canada to the flat prairies and the rugged landscapes of the Northwest Territories, flooding is a shared concern. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into flood preparedness and how to protect our homes and our belongings.

Understanding Flood Risks:

Canada’s flood risks are multifaceted, influenced by factors such as heavy rainfall, flash floods, rapid snowmelt, storm surges, and coastal erosion. Here is a list of flood risks to consider for your area:

Natural Factors:

Heavy Rainfall: Intense and prolonged rainfall can lead to flash floods and river flooding.
Flash Flooding: A flash flood is a sudden and intense flood that occurs within a very short period, typically within six hours of heavy rainfall or other events that rapidly introduce large amounts of water to a specific area.
Snowmelt: Rapid melting of snow, especially in the spring, can contribute to river and urban flooding.
Ice Jams: Accumulation of ice in rivers during the winter that can obstruct the natural flow of water, leading to localized flooding.
Storm Surges: Coastal areas are susceptible to storm surges during hurricanes or intense storms, causing flooding along shorelines. It is a sudden and abnormal rise in sea level along a coastline. This phenomenon is primarily associated with tropical cyclones, hurricanes, or severe storms that make landfall near coastal areas.

Geographical Factors:

Low-Lying Areas: Regions with low elevation are at a higher risk of flooding, especially during heavy rainfall or storm events. Low-lying areas are susceptible to flooding for most specifically because they do not have adequate drainage, being at a lower elevation.
Proximity to Water Bodies: Areas near rivers, lakes, and coastal regions are more vulnerable to flooding.

Human-Induced Factors:

Land Use Changes: Deforestation and changes in land use can impact natural drainage patterns
Infrastructure Condition: Poorly maintained or inadequate infrastructure, such as levees and dams, can lead to flooding if they fail.
Inadequate drainage systems: can exacerbate flooding risks
Urbanization: Urban areas with increased impervious surfaces can experience rapid runoff

Climate Change:

Sea Level Rise: Rising sea levels due to climate change increase the risk of coastal flooding.
Extreme Weather Events: Changes in weather patterns may result in more frequent and intense storms, elevating flood risks.
Previous Flood Events: Understanding the history of flooding in an area provides insights into recurrent risks and potential vulnerabilities.

Specific Regional Risks:

Prairie Provinces: Flat terrain and rapid river flow contribute to the risk of river flooding.
Atlantic Canada: Coastal regions are susceptible to storm surges and heavy precipitation, increasing the risk of coastal and river flooding.
British Columbia: Combination of river and coastal flooding risks, particularly in regions with heavy rainfall and proximity to the ocean.
Quebec: River flooding due to snowmelt and heavy spring rains is a common risk.
Northern Regions: Ice jams in rivers during colder seasons can lead to sudden flooding.

Create a Comprehensive Emergency Plan:

In regions like the Prairies, where vast plains can experience rapid river flooding, having a well-thought-out family emergency plan is paramount. Practicing evacuation procedures ensures readiness in the event of a flood. Consider the following in your preparations:

Evacuation routes
Designated meeting points
Contact information
72 Hour Kits (to grab and go) & Emergency kits (to hunker down at home)

Install Flood Barriers and Seals:

Coastal communities, particularly in Newfoundland and Labrador, where storm surges are prevalent, invest in robust flood barriers and seals. These structures act as a formidable defense against water infiltration, shielding homes from the impacts of severe weather events.

Stay Informed:

In northern regions like Yukon and Northwest Territories, where ice jams can lead to sudden flooding, staying informed is crucial. Real-time monitoring of river levels through advanced technologies helps residents anticipate potential flooding and take timely action.

In the Event of a Flood: Post Flood Response

Ensure Safety First:

Wait for Official Clearance: Do not return to your home or affected area until authorities declare it safe to do so. Floodwaters may have caused structural damage, and hidden hazards could pose risks.
Beware of Contaminated Water: Floodwaters can carry contaminants, including sewage and hazardous substances. Avoid contact with floodwater to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Document the Damage:

Take Photographs: Document the damage to your property by taking photographs. This will be crucial for insurance claims and disaster assistance applications.
Keep Records: Maintain a record of damaged items, including their approximate value and purchase date. This information will aid in the claims process.

Contact Your Insurance Provider:

Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage. Provide them with the documentation and information collected.
Understand Coverage: Understand the extent of your insurance coverage, including coverage for structural damage, contents, and additional living expenses.

Coordinate with Emergency Services:

Stay Informed: Continue to stay informed about post-flood developments through official channels. Follow guidance from emergency services and local authorities.
Follow Evacuation Orders: If you were evacuated, follow instructions on when and how to return. Emergency services will provide guidance on re-entry procedures.

Assess and Repair Structural Damage:

Consult Professionals: Engage professionals to assess structural damage to your home. Address immediate safety concerns and prioritize repairs to prevent further damage. Coordinate with your insurance company before doing any repairs.
Secure Permits: Obtain necessary permits before beginning any repairs or reconstruction. Local building codes must be adhered to.

Dispose of Damaged Items:

Dispose Properly: Dispose of damaged items according to local regulations. Separate hazardous waste from regular debris.
Be Cautious of Mold: Be vigilant for mold growth in damp areas. Safely remove and dispose of contaminated materials to prevent health issues.

Conclusion:

In the face of the daunting challenges that floods bring, it is heartening to witness the resilience and compassion that communities display. As the waters recede, the true spirit of care and solidarity emerges. Remember, recovery is not a solitary journey but a collective effort. Reach out, support one another, and together, we can rebuild, heal, and create a future that stands resilient against the tides of adversity. In every act of kindness, in every helping hand extended, lies the promise of a brighter, more compassionate tomorrow.