What to Do When Heavy Rain Strikes

Rainfall is abundant here in Singapore especially from November to January. Heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods. With this, the National Environment Agency (NEA), together with other government agencies are keen on giving advisories to the public to watch out for flash floods especially if the rain corresponds with high tide. Flash floods refer to the sudden rush of water. The surge or rush is destructive that it can claim lives and properties.

It is important that you know what to do when heavy rain and/or flash flood strike. Here are some things that you can consider to increase your chances of surviving flash floods caused by heavy rains:

• Move to higher grounds. When you are told to move to higher grounds, you should follow the instructions. Do not ignore or underestimate the seriousness of the flood because it will cost your life. If you are told to move to a safe evacuation center, do it immediately.
• Keep updated. You ignore the weather forecasts at times because you believe that it will not matter. That is where you are wrong. You have to know the weather forecast so you will know what to do. If you hear that there are possibilities of heavy rains, you can bring your umbrella or go home early.
• Avoid flood prone areas. You should know the flood prone areas. If you live in a place where flood happens, you should follow the government’s evacuation plan to be safe. If your route home involves streams and drainage outlets, you should avoid it.
• Secure your house. It is important that you secure your family first but if you have upper floors, it can serve as your sanctuary. If time allows it, you need to bring your things up so it will not be damaged. Your appliances and furniture sets should be secured safely.
• Do not walk through moving water. If the water is moving, do not walk through it. The gush will only knock you off your feet. If you need to move, walk where the water is not stirring. When you walk, wear your shoes or boots to avoid any infections from dirty water.
• Do not drive. When you hear floods engulfed your area, you would rush home with your car. That is not a wise thing to do. The rising water can sweep your car. The safest thing to do is abandon your car and look for higher grounds.

There are times that you need more than jacket and umbrella when heavy rain strikes. When unfortunate things happen, it is important that you keep calm and maintain your resolve so you will know what to do next. If you panic and get anxious, you will not survive it all.