Spring Flooding Preparedness

News Release Date
04-07-2023
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Utah has experienced a much higher snow pack this year. That snowpack, along with potential spring rains, may cause high stream flows and water tables. We anticipate there will be potential flooding in areas where we do not usually see water flow.  Residents are encouraged to be aware of the potential for flooding this spring and take measures to protect areas near your home by clearing out rain gutters, downspouts and storm drains. Check your landscaping to make sure water drains away from your home.

If you need to report flooding:

  • Call 9-1-1 if it is a life-or-death emergency.
  • Call (801) 840-4000 if you have a non-emergency but require police or fire assistance.
  • Call (385) 468-6600 if you see water from a creek or river that is going over bridges or roadways or if you see street, intersection, or parking lot flooding. The operator will ask you some questions and take down your information.
  • Call (385) 468-6101 if you see flooding on a roadway that is located away from a creek or river. This is most likely a storm drain issue.

 

Where Can I Pick Up Sandbags?

Salt Lake County is providing sandbags to residents to protect their homes from flooding. Residents are allotted 25 complimentary sandbags per day. Bring your own shovel and gloves. You can pick up sandbags at:

Salt Lake County Public Works Operations Division Sandbag Shed (north of main office building)
604 West 6960 South, Midvale, Utah
Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm       Phone: (801) 468-6600

 

How do you know if your home is in a flood zone?

There's an easy way to check. Go to this website to view an interactive map: Salt Lake County Flood Plain Map

Additional information can be found on the main website: https://slcoem.org  Emergencies/Incidents - Flooding/Spring Runoff. You can also visit the FEMA Flood Plain Map: https://msc.fema.gov and the Utah Risk Map: https://floodhazards.utah.gov

 

What to do during a flood?   

Salt Lake County Watershed Streamflow and Precipitation  https://rain-flow.slco.org

  • Listen to the radio or TV for announcements about rainstorms and the potential for flooding. Information on floods can change quickly, so make sure that you are constantly monitoring if a flood is likely in your area.
  • Move immediately to higher ground if there is any possibility of a flash flood.
  • Keep children and pets away from swift, high water in rivers, creeks or canals.
  • Be aware of rivers, streams, and drainage channels that can overflow and cause a flood.
  • If you must evacuate, secure your home if you have time. Move essential items to the second floor of the house in case the floodwater goes higher than a few inches or feet.
  • Turn off utilities before leaving the house.

 

What NOT to do during a flood?

  • Don’t turn on the electricity when the house is flooded. You may get electrocuted.
  • Do not drive through floodwaters. You do not know how deep the water is or how fast moving it is.
  • Don’t ignore flood warnings. Evacuate immediately when the order is given.
  • Don’t forget your emergency kit when you evacuate.

Volunteers

Would you like to volunteer to help with sandbagging, debris removal, etc.? Complete this form online:  Volunteer Registration Form

 

Would you like to request volunteer help? This includes anyone needing help with sandbagging or debris removal.  Complete this form online:  Volunteer Help Request Form