cityofboston.gov - Official Web Site of the City of Boston - Thomas M. Menino, Mayor

Text size: A A A

Floods

Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a flood hazard:

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information.
Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.

Prepare your home:

Find out if your home is at risk for flood. Visit www.floodsmart.gov
Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.
Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider if you need additional coverage.