After record rainfall this week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or
FEMA, is urging South Florida residents who experienced flood damage to take precautions during cleanup and to document all damage before beginning repairs.
Persistent storms dumped up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) of rain in southern Florida this week.
Some neighborhood streets in Miami and Fort Lauderdale still have standing water, although it is rapidly receding, officials said.
“The worst flooding risk was the last three days,” said Sammy Hadi, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Miami. “The heaviest rainfall has concluded.”
The storm system, which did not have a name, moved across Florida from the Gulf of Mexico just as hurricane season began in early June. This season is forecast to be one of the most active in recent memory, with concerns that climate change is increasing storm intensity.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a media briefing in Hollywood, south of Fort Lauderdale, and said while more rain was coming, it was likely to be more typical of South Florida afternoon showers this time of year.
FEMA ready to support policyholders
FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program said it is ready to support policyholders who may suffer flood damage. Policyholders who sustained damage should contact their agent to file a claim. Anyone who does not know their flood insurance agent or carrier should call 877-336-2627 to speak with an adjuster.
Anyone who sustained damage should document their flood loss using photos and video before they begin cleaning up their property or discarding items. Other important tips for cleaning up after a flood include:
- Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing, and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
- Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.
- Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
Read more: DeSantis discusses recovery efforts amid severe flooding in South Florida
