The National Weather Service issues Flood Watches and Warnings. Here's how to know the difference:

Flood Watch = Be prepared; a flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding.

Flood Advisory = Be aware; a flood advisory is issued when a specific weather event is forecasted and may cause significant inconvenience or, if not careful, could threaten life or property.

Flood Warning = Take action; a flood warning is issued when hazardous weather is imminent or occurring.

Flash Flood Warning = Take action; a flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood – a sudden, violent flood – is imminent or occurring. Move to high ground immediately.

Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto dry land, resulting from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges and overflows of dams and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly, sometimes coming with no warning whatsoever.

Avoid driving on bridges; fast-moving water can wash them away without warning. If you are surrounded or trapped by rapidly moving water, stay inside of your vehicle. If water begins rising inside your vehicle, get on the roof and signal for help.

You should get a flood insurance policy prior to any threat of flooding; insurance companies stop issuing policies if there is a threat of flooding. Such policies can take up to 30 days to go into effect so it is important to get it as soon as possible if you are in an area prone to flooding.

Yes; floodwater rising in your home may have electricity in it. Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. Leave your home immediately if you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises.

Wait for the all clear from local authorities. Returning to disaster areas could put you at risk or hamper search and rescue or other emergency operations. If you've gotten the go ahead to return home, pay attention to closed and cautionary road signs.

You never know how deep or fast-moving floodwater can be; just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and two feet can float a car. Additionally, you never know what floodwater is hiding; floodwater can contain sharp objects, downed power lines, sewage, bacteria, chemicals and wild or stray animals.

There is a chance of water contamination during or after flooding; bacteria, microorganisms and other pollutants could be in your water and cause illness. Do not use running water for anything – drinking, cooking, washing dishes, making ice, washing hands, brushing teeth – until you have been informed by local authorities or your utility company that it is safe to do so.

An excess amount of standing water can put you at risk of electrocution. Turn off electricity to prevent electric shock.

For an auto claim, consider utilizing our Auto Claim Worksheet. For all other claims, consider utilizing our Property Claim Worksheet.