Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Flooding

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — “Flooding is Mecklenburg County’s number-one costliest natural disaster,” says John Wendel of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services. $2.2 million in flood damages have already occurred since January, a costly start to 2024 – and severe weather season hasn’t even begun to ramp up yet. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services is doing what they can to minimize flooding risk, but they need your help. “There are more than 100,000 storm drains just in the city of Charlotte, and we can’t get to them all,” Wendell admits. “So, if you clear those blockages out, it really does help out a lot.”

Blockages in Storm Drains and Creeks

There are also over 3000 miles of streams and creeks in Mecklenburg County alone that can’t be cleared so easily. If you see a major blockage, call 311. You may just save someone’s property – or even someone’s life.

Flooding Insurance and Precautions

Even with the best precautions taken, flooding damage is sometimes unavoidable. That’s why you should always stay prepared and shield yourself from financial fallout. “Your typical homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding,” Wendel explains. “Everybody is eligible for flooding, even outside of the floodplain. As a matter of fact, 20% of all flood claims came from outside of the floodplain.” And, always remember: turn around, don’t drown.

Tips to Stay Safe During Floods

“More than 50% of flood deaths occur when people are still in their car, meaning they’re going around barricades. They’re driving through floodwater. Remember, six inches of moving water can knock a person over. One foot of moving water can move a car.”