Flood Watch: Storm Awareness Critical as Hurricane Season Ramps Up

Flood Watch: Storm Awareness Critical as Hurricane Season Ramps Up

It may be surprising to know the wind speed associated with a tropical cyclone does not cause the most damage to local communities. In fact, it's the rain. Central Florida has already experienced above-average rainfall this tropical season, causing ground saturation, and we have seen how slower-moving storms can cause life-threatening flooding along their path.

"The lesson is don't let your guard down because it's a lesser-intensity storm," said William Ulrich, Warning Coordination Meteorologist, National Weather Service, Melbourne. "Storm surge and rain-induced flooding are the leading causes of death from tropical cyclones."

According to Ulrich, there are four hazards associated with tropical cyclones: wind, flooding rain, storm surge and tornadoes. Wind is how tropical cyclones are classified, but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Fortunately, Orange County residents do not have to consider storm surge, but they need to prepare for the other three hazards, and flooding can be the most dangerous.

"We need to take a holistic approach to these storms and consider everything," asserted Ulrich. "Fresh-water flooding represents a critical component of tropical cyclones because they possess ample amounts of moisture, and the potential for flooding is tied to the storm's forward motion and not its category. The slower the storm, the greater the potential for flooding."

In 2022, we experienced the remnants of Hurricane Ian, which was only a tropical storm when it hit Central Florida, but it held an immense amount of tropical moisture, and 10 to 15 inches of rain fell over Orange County within a 12 to 16 hour period, causing prolific flooding.

"When it comes to rain preparation, determine if your home is at a higher risk for flooding," explained Ulrich. "Remain weather aware and keep track of forecasts so you know when a flood watch or warning is issued for your area. Also, consult emergency management for sandbag distribution and consider evacuating early if you live in a low-lying or flood-prone community.

In extreme cases, such as with Hurricane Ian, flooding can occur in areas not prone to it, and if you live along a river or creek, know they could take a few days to crest after the rain stops. Also, be aware roads in and out of your community could get flooded, which might cut you off for days.

Ulrich stresses that roads and bridges can become extremely dangerous and get washed away, so avoid flooded roads, especially at night. It is difficult to gauge the depth of water and hard to discern between the roads and a flooded ditch. Stay in place or get in place before it gets bad.

"There's always a lot of uncertainty associated with tropical cyclones, so the key is to prepare for every possible hazard," he said. "Don't let a storm's lack of intensity make you complacent. We're in the height of the hurricane season, so consider your vulnerability and prepare accordingly."

For more on hurricane season and how to be prepared, go to our Hurricane Safety Guide.