Post-Fire Flood Risk

Even if you have not been at risk of flooding in the past…..

You may be at risk of flooding now due to recent wildfires that have burned in your area.

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There are steps you can take to reduce flood risk, and resources that may be available to assist you. See the Before, During, and After Flood pages for important tips and links

Read more here on why your flood risk may have increased

POST-WILDFIRE CONDITIONS

Normally, vegetation absorbs rainfall and reduces runoff. However, wildfires leave the ground charred, barren, and unable to absorb water, creating conditions ripe for flash flooding and debris flows. Flood risk remains significantly higher until vegetation is restored—up to five years or longer after a wildfire.

Even modest rainstorms over a burned area can result in flash flooding downstream. These floods are typically much larger than they would have been before the wildfire. Flooding is likely to be much more extensive following wildfire, endangering properties previously considered safe from flooding. These floodwaters typically transport surface debris such as downed trees, boulders, mud and gravel.

If you live or work anywhere near a burned area, you need to be aware of the new flooding hazard. Follow the sidebar quick links for important tips and tools.