Transylvania County is one of the wettest places in the United States. Unfortunately, living in a setting such as ours, an area surrounded by mountains and high rainfall amounts, generates flooding risks that are hazardous to life and property.
If you live in the special flood hazard area (SFHA), which are those areas especially prone to flooding, it is a good idea to plan ahead in case of an emergency. Before flooding occurs you should check with your insurance agent to make sure your policy is up to date and active (most new policies take 30 days to become effective). It also is wise to catalog your belongings to support your claim should something happen. Remember to have plan for your family as well. Store extra supplies such as water, food, and a first aid kit, plan evacuation routes, and have a battery powered radio and flashlight.
If a flood should occur, move to higher ground, do not try to walk or drive across flooded streams or roads, and listen for updates on the radio. It only takes a few inches of water to sweep someone off their feet, and just a couple feet of water can carry a car downstream.
If you think your property may be located in a SFHA you can visitwww.cityofbrevard.com/flood and click on the link “Flood Risk Information System” and locate your property. You may also contact the City of Brevard Planning Department 828-885-5630 for assistance.