Flood Preparedness

Flooding Dangers

Even if you have never experienced a major flood, you should know what to do when flooding threatens Danville. Floods account for more than $1 billion in property losses in the United States each year.

You may not live along either the Dan River or Sandy River that meet in the center of the City, but you may still be at risk of flash flooding, which includes flooding from heavy rainfall over an extended period of time, as well as flash flooding resulting from severe storms.

Flood Preparedness Tips

Danville Emergency Management wants all of our residents and businesses to be aware of preparedness tips to ensure you know what to do before, during, and after a flood. You may request someone from the Emergency Management's Education and Public Outreach staff to speak at your school, church, civic organization, or function on flood preparedness. We can also work with your business or industry public relations campaigns.

National Weather Service Terms

A flash flood watch is issued when it is possible rains will cause flash flooding in a specific area. A flash flood warning is issued when flash flooding is occurring or imminent in a specified area.

Safety Tips

• Seek high ground if you see or hear rapidly-rising water.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing water that may be more than knee deep. If you have doubts, don't cross. Six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet. Two feet will cause most vehicles to float.
• Never attempt to drive your car through standing water.
• If your vehicle stalls, abandon it and seek higher ground immediately.
• During threatening weather, listen to the radio or television for weather bulletins.

Preparing for Rainwater Flooding

• Know your area's flood risk. If you are unsure, contact the Emergency Management Office at 434-799-6535.
• If it has been raining hard for several hours or steadily for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.
• Listen to local radio and television stations for flood information.