Flash Flooding
Flash floods are exactly what the name suggests: floods that happen in a flash! In Norfolk, flash flooding is often the result of copious amounts of rainfall from thunderstorms or excessive rainfall across saturated ground. This can result in flooded streets, underpasses, or other flood-prone areas.
The National Weather Service issues Flood Advisories or Flash Flood Warnings when flooding is occurring or expected to occur shortly. A Flood Advisory is issued for minor flooding, while a Flash Flood Warning is issued when several instances of flooding are expected. Sign up for Norfolk Alert to get notifications of Flash Flood Warnings.
If a Flash Flood Warning is issued, use extra caution while driving, as roads may be flooded. Be alert to any rising water.
Turn Around, Don't Drown!
Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard, according to NOAA. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters.
Water is a powerful force! Many of these drownings are preventable. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water, or may be much deeper than it appears. A car driven into flood waters can stall, causing you to get stuck in the flood waters.
Due to our relatively flat topography, most flood waters that develop in Norfolk are often still and not swiftly moving, like they can be in hilly terrain. Any moving water should always be avoided, though. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters.
Flood waters often contain debris, animals or insects, harmful bacteria, pet waste, chemicals, sewage, sharp objects, or other hazardous conditions. Never let pets or kids play in floodwater.
WAZE App for Flood Alerts
Use the Waze app to get real-time flooding updates thanks to our partnership with RISE Resilience Innovations and climate tech FloodMapp. The app provides pop-up icons and audio alerts to warn of flooded streets along your route. You can also confirm flooding with a "thumbs up" to validate and approve accuracy.