Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program

Flash floods are often sudden and happen within hours of heavy rainfall. Floods create violent streams of water, that can travel through streets, roadways, and neighborhoods, destroying whatever is in their path, including vehicles, homes, and buildings. Floods are not only possible with heavy rain fall, but also with dam or levee breaks and damage. Heavy rain is the first sign of flooding conditions.

Conditions are likely for flash flooding. A watch often covers several counties. When a watch is issued, that is the best time to have your emergency plan ready for action in case water does begin to rise.

Dangerous flooding is happening or will begin soon. A warning often covers a small specific area due to heavy rain or dam/levee failures. During this time, you must act quickly to protect yourself and your family by moving to higher ground.

Extreme heavy rain is happening and can lead to a severe threat to human life and catastrophic damage from a flash flood that is happening or likely to happen soon. Emergency officials are likely to be reporting life-threatening rising water that will require rescues and evacuations.

Heavy flows of water can sweep you and your vehicle downstream. It is always advised to move to higher ground if flooding is likely to occur, especially at night.