Plumbing is one of the oldest professions in the world, dating back to 2500 B.C., and while there have been a great many changes and improvements in that time, we still can’t stop our homes from flooding. Of course, not all flooding in the home is man made.
Disasters, like flooding from too much rainfall and backed up storm drains, are all too common, and that’s exactly what Northeastern cities in the United States may start to experience as they are drowned in rain and thunderstorms this June.
According to AccuWeather, there were several instances of flash flooding and damaging winds in the Northeast recently, with roads being closed due to flooding in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Additionally, homes throughout the region were in danger of being caught in the floodwaters.
It is estimated that just one inch of water in a 2,000 square foot home can lead to roughly $20,920 in total damages. That means that this flooding could have disastrous costs for homeowners in the flood zone.
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist, Dave Samuhel, believes there is a concerning weather pattern developing across the Northeast.
“Abundant moisture is already flowing northward out of the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean and will be reinforced by a flow straight from the deep tropics. Meanwhile, a strengthening cold front will very slowly across the Northeast through Monday night.”
These elements will combine to create heavy downpours across the majority of the Northeast, he believes. Despite a drier start to the month, this month’s downpours have left the ground in many areas over saturated.
Reports state that locations like Johnstown, Pennsylvania had nearly four inches of rainwater from ahead of the recent storms.
But rain is not the only concern, though flooding is the largest thing they recommend watching out for.
“There is a severe weather threat as well in the Northeast,” Samuhel said. “Due to strengthening winds aloft, damaging winds cannot be ruled out.”
In addition to damaging winds, there could be isolated tornadoes and hail as well.
And while the initial line of thunderstorms can produce damaging winds, more downpours may follow. Weather experts are warning people to ensure that their homes are well protected against floods, and to keep on standby in case they need to get water out of their places of residence.
They also recommend moving valuables from the ground level, if residents are in a home that can be potentially at risk of flooding. While rain may seem inconsequential, six inches can have enough force to knock down an adult, while 12 can carry away a car.
To be safe, avoid all flooded roads and stick to higher ground at all times, if possible.
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