Santa Clara University

The information below is advice on what to do before, during, and after a flood due to excessive raining.

Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

• What to Do Before a Flood

  • Make sure your furnace, water heater, and electrical panels are above ground level
  • Construct barriers with sandbags around entrances
  • Store possessions in waterproof containers
  • Clean out gutters to make sure there is no buildup of leaves and other debris that could clog drains

• What to Do During a Flood

  • Listen, watch, or read the news for more information
  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur so be prepared to evacuate to higher ground
  • Comply with all emergency instructions to evacuate and secure your possessions in preparation of leaving
  • Turn off all utilities before evacuating
  • Do not walk through moving water (even 6 inches is enough to cause a fall)
  • Do not drive in more than a foot of water

• What to Do After a Flood

  • Listen, watch, or read the news to make sure water supplies are drinkable
  • Stay away from downed power lines
  • Be careful when entering a house since there may be flood damage that is not immediately noticeable
  • Clean and disinfect anything that got wet as there may be possible sewage contamination

• Online Resources

  • Flood Information (FEMA)