As Hurricane Florence approaches the Carolina coast, residents are preparing for the possibility of significant storm surge and coastal flooding. Storm surge is the abnormal rise in water level above the normal tide, caused by the low pressure and high winds of a hurricane. When combined with the normal tides, storm surge can cause severe flooding in coastal areas.
Storm surge is a major concern with Hurricane Florence, as the storm is expected to produce a large surge along the coast. The National Weather Service is forecasting a storm surge of 9-13 feet from Cape Fear to Cape Lookout, with the potential for higher surge in some areas. This could result in significant flooding and damage to coastal areas.
Residents in coastal areas should take steps to prepare for the possibility of storm surge and coastal flooding. Some things you can do to prepare include:
– Know your flood risk. Check the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Flood Insurance Rate Maps to see if you live in a high-risk flood zone.
– Elevate your home or business. If possible, elevate your home or business to reduce the risk of flooding.
– Strengthen your home. Make sure your home is structurally sound and can withstand the force of floodwaters.
– Create a flood plan. Know how you will evacuate if flooding occurs and have a plan in place.
– Have flood insurance. Flood damage is not typically covered by homeowner’s insurance, so it’s important to have flood insurance if you live in a high-risk area.
By taking steps to prepare for the possibility of storm surge and coastal flooding, you can reduce the risk of damage to your home or business. For more information on preparing for flooding, visit the FEMA website.