When a devastating hurricane or flood strikes your area, the initial relief of survival is swiftly followed by the challenge of rebuilding in its aftermath. The aftermath can be overwhelming, from the tangible damages to the emotional scars, flooding can change lives and communities in profound ways. In this piece, we delve into some unexpected realities we faced post-Hurricane Katrina.
Steps to Take Before a Flooding Incident:
This article expands on crucial steps to consider before evacuating:
- Do you have a cash reserve at home? This simple step could save you from the hassle that Mr. Motorcycle faced: seeking a functional bank after the flood.
- Is your emergency kit ready and accessible? Preparation could have changed a lot for a client of mine. Had he grabbed the kit and his phone, things might have turned out differently.
- Have you safeguarded essential documents? Another customer learned the hard way about the importance of having essential records at the ready.
- Do you monitor local news actively during severe weather?
- Have you made arrangements with friends or family outside the affected area for shelter? Storing some supplies at their place could be a lifesaver.
- Knowing both urgent and planned evacuation routes is essential.
Beyond holding some cash, these measures are relatively low-cost. While it may require an investment to stockpile food and purchase water purifiers, covering the basics is cost-effective.
Aftermath of Severe Flooding: 10 Realities
Here’s what you might face after a significant flood event:
- Delays Are Inevitable. With everyone needing the same supplies, queues and wait times become longer.
- Unforeseen Challenges. Damages could range from electrical systems to household appliances, complicating recovery.
- Lines are Networking Opportunities. While waiting, you can gather information from others about available resources.
- Floodwaters Are Contaminated. They carry more than just water, making cleaning more complex.
- Shortage of Goods. Essential items might be hard to come by for a while.
- Don’t Rely on Thrift Stores. They might have suffered damage too.
- Temporary Housing Isn’t Glamorous. Living in a temporary setup like an RV or FEMA trailer can be challenging.
- Return to Work and Adjusted Priorities. Balancing work with rebuilding will become a juggling act.
- Accept Help When Offered. Let people support you and pass it forward when you can.
- Limitations of Official Aid. Government assistance might not always match specific needs, making self-preparation crucial.
Bonus Reality: Beware of opportunists looking to exploit the situation. Recognize and steer clear of scams.
Affluence Doesn’t Shield from Flood Damage
Consider the story of Mr. Motorcycle, a prosperous man from Canada with a penchant for designing motorcycles. He believed his wealth could shield him from adversity. However, during the Calgary flood, he learned the hard way about the importance of preparation.
When the Waters Rise: A Cautionary Tale
Mr. Motorcycle underestimated the flood warnings. But that night, water came crashing into his home. While he narrowly escaped with his life, he lost almost everything else. Even the wealthy can find themselves desperate for the basics: food, shelter, and warmth.
Key Takeaways on Flooding’s Impact
Reflecting on Mr. Motorcycle’s story, it’s heartening that he had friends to lean on. In times of disaster, assets and external achievements mean little. What truly counts are inner resilience, any remaining physical assets, and our network of reliable friends and family. Always be prepared, for…
