Floods are generally related to storms that produce large amounts of rain over short periods of time, resulting in the accumulation of excessive amounts of water. Flooding occurs in all parts of Florida. Hurricanes are often accompanied by storm-surge flooding and inland flooding due to extensive rains that are associated with the storms. River flooding, which may or may not be related to hurricane-associated rains, can be a problem in many parts of the state. Localized heavy storms can and do produce flooding. While hurricanes are Florida’s most obvious flood producers, it is important to realize that heavy rains can cause flooding in Florida at any time of the year and at any place. Flooding may result in the loss of human life and property. Episodes of flooding may be accompanied by contamination of aquifers and water wells in some areas. Floridians should be aware of “boil-water warnings” posted in their local news media. It is vitally important that everyone living in Florida be aware of the potential for flooding and resources available to assist Floridians in dealing with it.

Flooding is related to an area’s topography and surface water features including its coastline. The state of Florida is divided into Five Water Management Districts and their web sites provide flood information pertinent to the areas that they cover. Links to these web sites are provided below:

• http://floridaswater.com/
• http://www.nwfwmd.state.fl.us/
• http://www.sfwmd.gov/portal/page/portal/levelthree/drought%20and%20flood
• http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/emergency/floodriskprojects/
• http://www.srwmd.state.fl.us/water+data/flood+information.htm

There are a number of web based resources that contain important information concerning flooding. Three are included here. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website contains information on the Federal Flood Insurance Program http://www.fema.gov/hazard/flood/index.shtm.

Federal Flood Insurance is a vital resource since homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage. The website also provides instructions for ordering maps that detail flood prone areas. Ideally, flood prone areas should be identified and taken into account when developments are planned. The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration website contains invaluable information on weather events that produce flooding. It is important for Floridians to be aware of the weather at all times, with special vigilance during hurricane season. A link to the Weather Channel web site, a commercial site, is included.

• http://www.noaa.gov/
• http://www.weather.com/

 
Caption for all pictures: Flooding near Crystal River (Citrus County) Florida.