Flooding In Cleveland, Oh - Why It Happens And What Can You Do?

By Author: Greg Gennison
Total Articles: 3
Comment this article

Cleveland is the most populated city of Ohio and has its fair share of natural disasters. The most frequent problem faced by Cleveland residents is flooding and damages. Read on to learn common causes and the steps you can take to help minimize the problem and reduce damages.

Flooding in Cleveland is mainly caused from heavy rainstorms. These storms result in large amounts of rainfall and the excessive water, instead of traveling into proper drains or if clogged and blocked, leads to flash floods in various areas of the city. In other words, the most direct causes of flooding in Cleveland is credited to the flat topography of the area. 

During torrential rainstorms, flash flooding can occur with little or no warning. In Cleveland, floods can result in water measuring up to a foot deep, standing across many blocks in the city. Such flash floods cause the flooding of basements, homes, and buildings, resulting in massive water damage to flooring, carpeting, walls, and structures of the building. Aside from the structural items, other possessions within the house such as valuables, furniture, and appliances are also ...
... damaged in such unfortunate events. In the United States, flooding causes more than 90% of all property damage, amounting to more than two billion dollars in damages per year.

What to do before a flood?

It is wise for potential homeowners to find out the flood history of an area before they start building their home there. But with floods there are no guarantees, as flooding is a potential threat anywhere heavy rainstorms may befall. Interiors of a building or apartment might be secure, if it is in a high-rise building, but like how many buildings are built today, garages are located in the underground and flash floods can most certainly damage your vehicle parked below. For people living in independent homes, it is important to take notice from the previous rainstorm and be prepared for the next occurrence. The idea here is to protect your belongings and property from the flooded waters:

1. Elevate the water heater, electrical panel, and furnace if they were affected in a previous flash floods.

2. To stop the floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home, you must install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent such situations.

What to do during a flood?

When the warning of a rainstorm and potential flash flood comes about:

1. Stay away from streams, drainage channels, and other areas that are susceptible to instant flooding.

2. Try to move valuable possessions on the lower floors and basement to the upper floor.

3. Switch off all electrical items and switches. Disconnect them and do not use anything till the water recedes from your house and you are directed by a professional to do so.

4. Keep your eyes and ears attentive for information on any rescue or relief operations.

5. Do not try to walk through moving water as you run the risk of falling, tripping, and injuring yourself by the materials that may have been swept by the water. It is possible to walk in standing water but be extremely careful and avoid it, as the ground below it could cave in and the depth of water may be unknown.

6. If you are stuck in your car, do not attempt to drive further. Get out of the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. Remember that the height of one foot of moving water can easily float your vehicle away.

After a flood or any other disaster, remember to contact your insurance company for any damages and then call experts for water damage restoration Cleveland has a number of restoration service providers in the area, but it is your job to ensure you find the best provider to handle your situation.

The writer is associated with ServiceMaster by Disaster Recon, Ohio’s most trusted resource for fire and water damage restoration and mold removal Cleveland Ohio is the location of their base of operations.