EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is an edited excerpt of a report by Stacy Sloughly for TheTravel.com. Click here to read the full report.
Last September, Tropical Storm Helene unleashed a torrent of rain across North Carolina and parts of the Southeast, triggering flash floods that tore through homes, trails, and campgrounds. Entire properties were swept away as floodwaters destroyed everything in their path. Just a few months later, in February, a wave of unprecedented flooding and tornadoes devastated the southern U.S., leaving hundreds dead and many more injured across multiple states.
And more recently, over the July 4th weekend, two separate flash flood events turned deadly, wiping out neighborhoods and multiple campgrounds in Texas and North Carolina. Families were displaced, state parks were forced to close, and critical infrastructure was severely damaged. Meanwhile, New Mexico also just saw devastating flash floods in the town of Ruidoso right after Texas’s, leading to multiple deaths and homes being destroyed.
Though these disasters struck hundreds of miles apart, they delivered the same chilling message: flash floods can strike with little warning, and they’re becoming more frequent, more destructive, and more deadly. Whether you’re planning a multi-day backpacking trip or a quick weekend camping getaway, knowing how to prepare for flash floods is essential, and it can mean the difference between life and death.
Before You Go – Preparation Tips For Flash Floods
Preparation is your first and best defense against flash flooding. Flash floods can develop within minutes, especially in mountainous or canyon-filled regions. That means advance planning is critical. Once you’re on the trail or in the woods, options become limited.
Check the Weather Forecast
Always monitor the weather forecast in the days leading up to your trip. If there’s a flood watch or thunderstorm warning in the area, consider postponing. Many hikers mistakenly rely on just clear skies at the start of a hike, forgetting that flash floods can be triggered by storms miles away.
Know the Terrain
Scout the area before your trip if possible, or study topographic maps. Avoid camping near rivers, dry creek beds, narrow canyons, or other low-lying areas. These are common flash flood zones and can turn deadly quickly, even during overnight rain.
Have an Exit Plan
Identify higher ground locations near your route. If you suddenly hear or see water rising, you’ll need to know exactly where to go. Don’t wait to figure this out once flooding begins.
Pack Emergency Gear
At a minimum, your kit should include:
- A flashlight or headlamp
- Emergency whistle
- Waterproof map
- Backup food and clean water
- Fully charged phone or satellite GPS device (e.g., Garmin inReach)
Tell Someone Your Plans
Always share your route, destination, and expected return time with someone who won’t be on the trip. If something goes wrong, they can initiate help.
Quick Checklist: Gear to Pack for Flood Safety
- Emergency blanket
- Waterproof storage bag
- Extra socks and clothing
- First-aid kit
- Power bank or solar charger
Granted, having the above items might take up valuable space and weight in your camping or hiking bag, but having them readily available should a flash flooding event occur will be invaluable.
Click here to read the full report.
The post What Every Camper, Hiker Needs to Know About Flash Floods first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.