Floods occur throughout the year; however, floods have a higher frequency during the spring and fall.  Thunderstorms which produce intense rainfall or slow-moving tropical storms can cause a rapid rise of water and develop into flash floods within minutes.  Therefore, The City of Arlington’s Stormwater Management team would like to encourage our residents and business owners to assess their flood risk and flood preparedness during Texas Flood Awareness Week.

All residents, business owners and other property owners should evaluate their flood risk by visiting the FEMA Flood Map Center at https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home or by contacting the City of Arlington’s Stormwater Management Division.  Our staff can assist in identifying a property’s flood hazard risk by providing a property’s flood hazard zone, historical flooding information, local drainage issues and other flood related data.  Our staff is available to explain the natural floodplain functions and discuss protection for these areas.  Contact Stormwater Management staff at 817-459-6550 for more information.

Because the City of Arlington participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), Flood insurance is available for all commercial and residential properties in the City. Owners of these properties are eligible for building and content coverage.  Content coverage is also available to tenants of these properties.  It is important to remember that more than 25% of flood insurance claims come from outside of the Special Flood Hazard Area and standard property insurance such as homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. Purchase flood insurance by contacting your local insurance agent or visit www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program.  Don’t wait for the next flood to by flood insurance protection.  There is a 30-day waiting period for NFIP coverage to take effect.

Being prepared for emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety during a flood event.  You should assemble a 3-day emergency supply kit, first aid kit, develop a communication plan and designate a meeting place in case of evacuation.  Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning.    Make time to discuss personal safety with your family, friends or coworkers. Follow these simple rules to keep everyone safe during a flood.

• Don’t walk, swim, bike or drive through flooded roadways.  Turn Around Don’t Drown™
• Never drive around a barricade
• Keep away from downed power lines or other electrical wires
• Stay away from streambanks in flooded or recently flooded areas
• Watch out for local wildlife trying to escape floodwaters.

Visit www.arlingtontx.gov/floodsafety or www.floodsmart.gov for more ideas on protecting your family, home and property.