Monsoon Safety Awareness Week: Flash Flooding

”Storm 2006” inundated parts of El Paso after heavy rains brought flash floods to many areas across the city.

Since the monsoon season brings significant amounts of moisture to the El Paso area, flash flooding can be a major threat.

Flash flooding occurs when there is heavy rainfall in a short period of time. Unlike traditional flooding where waters rise slowly, flash floods are typically characterized by fast-moving and fast-rising water.

Many times flash flood waters rise too quickly for homes and businesses to be saved.

“If the water is moving slow enough you can get sandbags,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Rogash. “But make sure you don’t endanger yourself trying to protect your property. Your life is worth much more than your property.”

The borderland’s topography makes for especially dangerous flash flooding conditions since mountain runoff channels additional rain down towards the city, and the slope of the terrain creates fast-moving floodwaters.

The places most susceptible to flooding are low-lying areas, arroyos, drainage ditches and small streams. Other areas can still be at risk if heavy rainfall occurs.

These areas can be especially dangerous. Just 6 inches of rain can sweep a person off their feet, and 2 feet of water can float a car.

The popular saying “Turn around, don’t drown” is the best advice if you are driving and encounter flooded roads.

If road barriers are blocking the roads, find another route.

For more flooding safety tips, click on this link.

City representatives said crews have been working hard since ”Storm 2006” to make sure flood-prone areas are ready for the monsoon. Preparations include keeping over 300 drainage areas and more than 100 miles of storm pipes and channels clear of debris, as well as building entirely new stormwater systems in high-risk areas.

“The improvements to this drainage system will allow it to actually capture more of that storm water runoff and keep it underground, rather than being on the surface of the city streets,” said El Paso Water Utilities spokeswoman Christina Montoya.

Officials also wanted to remind parents and children that even when the drains and channels are dry, they are dangerous places to play. Water can quickly fill these areas and fast-moving currents can be deadly, even for the strongest swimmers.

Never enter floodwaters, even if they are stagnant, as they can contain sewage and bacteria.

Having sandbags on hand before the rains begin is a great way to be prepared. Often, sandbag supplies can be limited when storms approach due to high demand.

Free sandbags can be picked up at the new Stormwater Operations Center at 4801 Fred Wilson Drive.

Simply stacking the sandbags isn’t enough. For tips on proper sandbagging techniques, click on this link.

Monsoon season starts June 15 and continues through the end of September.