Did you know that a flash flood can occur even when there’s not a cloud in the sky? Imagine hiking in a canyon on a sunny day, enjoying the beautiful weather when suddenly, a rush of water is barreling down towards you. Flash floods occur when quick, intense rain causes a river to overrun its banks or, if the ground is too hard packed and dry to soak up the water, creates flows of water in normally dry areas. Flooding is also caused by the failure of man made structures like dams or levees, as well as by rapid snow melt. Even just a few inches of fast moving water can be enough to sweep you off your feet and put your life in jeopardy. Read on for some important flash flood survival tips.
One scenario: You cross over a shallow stream during your hike. On the way back you find that this babbling brook has become a rushing river. Don’t attempt to cross the waterway on foot, even if the current appears manageable. The deeper the water, the less control you will have. Move to higher ground and be prepared to stay put if needed, even if it may be several hours. Waiting for the waters to recede is your best bet.
If you’re in the middle of crossing a waterway, be aware of any changes in the volume and current, or if the water unexpectedly becomes muddy and cloudy. This could signal a coming flood. Don’t dawdle, get across and out of the water as quickly as possible and move to higher ground.
Flash floods are common in the American Southwest, where dry ground can’t absorb big cloudbursts quickly. Hiking in canyons and other desert areas can be especially tricky during the rainy season. Check the regional weather forecast before beginning your hike, and be prepared to act fast. Being able to climb up the canyon walls even just a few feet can get you out of the path of the water. Be aware if you are on the upstream or downstream side of a wash, so you will know which way water may come from. If you see clouds building up or hear thunder, even if far off, make your way out of the low lying areas.
Our last, and probably most important flash flood survival tip is to check the weather report before departing for your hike. Carrying a NOAA weather radio with you when hiking or camping can help alert you to sudden changes in your location. Being prepared is often your most important piece of safety equipment.
Featured Image from Nazrin Babashova/Unsplash
