Various parts of the southeast and mid-west are having issues with flooding in the first quarter of 2019. It is estimated that Nebraska will incur $1.4 billion dollars of damage due to the flooding. Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts said that roads, levies and other infrastructure have sustained an estimated $449 million in damage. Damage to private homes and businesses has reached $85 million so far, and farmers have experienced $400 million in cattle losses and $440 million in crop losses. Ricketts says an estimated 2,067 homes and 341 businesses have been damaged or destroyed in the flood. Sixty-five out of the 93 counties in Nebraska have been declared a state of emergency. Two lives were lost due to the flooding. The devastation is not over with. Iowa and Missouri and are now experiencing flooding which will continue to increase as the water flows down the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.
Whether you are driving or walking, if you come to a flooded road, Turn Around Don’t Drown. You will not know the depth of the water nor will you know the condition of the road under the water.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes etc.
- Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn Around Don’t Drown
- Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Turn Around Don’t Drown If your vehicle is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately and seek higher ground
- Do park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers
- Avoid low water crossings
- Use alternate routes to avoid flood prone areas
- Leave your vehicle immediately if it stalls in flood waters
- Move to higher ground if you can do so safely
- Most cars and light trucks will begin to float in as little as 1 to 2 feet of water
To check on weather conditions and flooding, go the National Weather Service website at: www.srh.weather.gov.