Flash Floods-Warnings-Watch

Flash Flood - Are you ready for a flood or flash flood?

Know What to Expect


Know your area's flood risk - if unsure, call your local American Red Cross Chapter at 831-462-2281. If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood. You can view the Flood Focus Brochure, the Flood Map and the Current River Levels (Pajaro River):
Pajaro Flood

Information About Floods & How to Prepare for Them


  • Floods can take several hours to days to develop.
  • Flash floods can take only a few minutes to a few hours to develop.
  • A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.
  • A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.
  • Prepare a Home Flood Plan
  • Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance to see if it covers flooding. If not, find out how to get flood insurance.
  • Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.
  • Assemble a flood safety kit containing the following:
  • First Aid Kit
  • Canned food and a non-electric can opener
  • Bottled water
  • Rubber boots and rubber gloves
  • Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places; a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.

When a Flood Watch is Issued


  • Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
  • Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.

When a Flood Warning is Issued


  • Listen to local radio and television stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

When a Flash Flood Watch is Issued


  • Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice. Or if you think a flash flood has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!
  • Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades, they are there for your safety.
  • If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.