For those of us who live and work in the low-lying areas along the Columbia River, the local levees do a lot to reduce the risk of flooding. But no levee can ever provide 100% protection, which means it’s up to each of us to be prepared for a flood. A few hours spent making your home or place of business secure, preparing an emergency kit, and creating a flood plan can make a big difference. Here are some resources to help you prepare before a flood.
- Sign up email or text alerts through Flash Alerts or Public Alerts
- Monitor weather reports via the National Weather Service or local news media
- Download the Red Cross’ Emergency Alerts App for iPhone or Android
Remember
Standard homeowner and renter’s insurance does not cover flooding
Depending on your location, you may be eligible for low-cost flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). To get more information on flood insurance, please visit www.FloodSmart.gov or call the NFIP Help Center at 800-427- 4661.
The NFIP is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program makes federally-backed flood insurance available for participating communities in exchange for local agreement to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA’s requirements to reduce the risk of flooding. A part of this agreement includes that in areas with levees, the levees must be “accredited” through FEMA, which means they meet specific flood safety standards.
Although our local levee system is not currently certified, the system is still accredited by FEMA at this time. We are working closely with local and federal partners to recertify the local levee system and maintain FEMA accreditation.
- How to Prepare for a Flood Guide by FEMA
- FloodSmart.gov – the official website of the National Flood Insurance Program
- The American Red Cross
- Ready.gov – national public service campaign to help people prepare for natural disasters
- Ready Business – tools and resources to prepare your business for natural disasters
- Forecasts for Portland, Oregon by the National Weather Service
- Protecting your family from environmental hazards before, during, and after a flood by the Environmental Protection Agency
- Flood safety resources and advice following a flood from the Centers on Disease Control
- DisasterAssistance.gov – resources for aid following a natural disaster