Heavy Flooding Strikes Early In 2025
We’re only two months into the year, and a series of events has resulted in significant flooding. In multiple areas of the country.
Several atmospheric river storms slammed the Northwest. While flooding in Kentucky caused death and destruction.
Southern Florida was pounded by torrential rain. And a burst pipe in Detroit, which caused neighborhood flooding. Not only does excessive amounts of water endanger lives and property. It can also severely damage our infrastructure.
Compared to the first two months of 2024, the U.S. has already experienced a large increase in flood-related incidents.
Was your area of the country affected?
Atmospheric River Blasts Northwest
Three atmospheric river storms struck Washington and Oregon. In less than two weeks during late February.
Hurricane-force wind gusts and torrential rain led to widespread power outages. Plus flooding and even tornado warnings.
The winds toppled trees and brought down power lines. First responders rescued people from homes and vehicles.
Residents in both states were warned to stay indoors as much as possible. When outdoors they were told to stay clear of forested areas where trees could fall. In Toutle, Oregon, wind gusts topped 90 miles per hour.
Flooding Ravages Kentucky and Other States
In February, severe storms led to catastrophic flooding across several states. Including Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Virginia.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed at least 21 fatalities. And more than 1,000 rescues due to the floods. “Kentucky has suffered one of the worst natural disasters in years,” he said. “With impacts felt statewide.”
Authorities closed over 100 roads. More than 500 people took shelter. In parks, hotels, schools, and churches.
The North Fork Kentucky River in Hazard crested at over 30.5 feet. Marking the worst flooding since 1984.
In Tennessee, a levee failure on the Obion River prompted evacuations. West Virginia also faced major flooding, leading to a state of emergency in 13 counties.
Record-Breaking Rains & Widespread Flooding
Also in February, Key West was flooded by heavy rains. The islands saw their wettest February day (3.5 inches) in 13 years.
Those rains also soaked the Miami area. That was following 3.5 to 4.5 inches of rain in Texas and Louisiana.
In mid-February, a 54-inch water main burst occurred in southwest Detroit. It flooded homes and streets with icy water. The water rose to five feet in some areas.
Dozens of adults, children, and pets required rescue. Firefighters used rubber rafts for the recuses. As well as the bucket of a front loader construction vehicle.
“We don’t recommend using bottled water unless it’s in the case of an emergency. Or something has gone very wrong. Like in the case of Flint, Michigan, where there was no safe water for anyone to drink.”
- Tasha Stoiber, Environmental Working Group senior scientist
Preparing for Flooding
Having an emergency response plan in place in the event of flooding is important. Your 72-hour survival kit and bug-out bags should be prepared in advance. Your solar generators should be fully charged. And your important documents should be organized.
Following are 6 steps you can take before flooding:
1. Stay informed – Listen to NOAA weather alerts or emergency broadcasts.
4. Use clean water sources – Rely on filtered or stored water to avoid contamination.
2. Move to higher ground – If flooding is expected, evacuate early if possible.
5. Keep emergency supplies ready – Have food, water, flashlights, and a first-aid kit.
3. Turn off utilities – Shut off gas, electricity, and water if advised to do so.
6. Avoid floodwaters – Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down.
After a flood, follow these safety precautions:
1. Don’t walk or drive through floodwaters – They may be deeper and faster-moving than they appear.
4. Don’t return home too soon – Only re-enter when officials confirm it’s safe.
2. Don’t ignore evacuation orders – Waiting too long can put you in danger.
5. Don’t drink tap water – It may be contaminated; use filtered or bottled water instead.
3. Don’t touch wet electrical equipment – Risk of electrocution is high.
Unfortunately, many Americans have been negatively affected by early storms. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.
But while storms are unpredictable, your preparedness doesn’t have to be. Stockpiling emergency supplies, having a plan in place, and staying informed can make all the difference.
References:
- All testimonials in this advertisement are from real people; sometimes names and photos have been changed to protect their privacy and some were given free products in exchange for their honest feedback. Testimonials represent exceptional results, don't apply to the average purchaser and are not intended to guarantee that anyone will achieve the same results. The organizations, publications and people referenced on this site are not affiliated with 4Patriots. They have not endorsed, sponsored or recommended this product; no affiliation or endorsement is claimed. Terms & conditions apply. Cade Courtley is a former Navy SEAL and Platoon Commander who served 9 years of active duty and has been compensated by 4Patriots for his hard work in helping us test and endorse this product. Cade Courtley is a former Navy SEAL who served 9 years of active duty and has been compensated by 4Patriots for his hard work in helping us test and endorse products.
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