Important Facts for Flooding

Definition

Flooding refers to any high flow, overflow, or inundation by water which causes or threatens damage.

Numerator

This Indicator Report contains the following variables: # Total cost due to flood damage (in U.S. dollars) # Number of deaths and injuries from floods # Number of flood events by type

Denominator

Not Applicable.

Why Is This Important?

Climate experts project that as the climate continues to change, so will the frequency of extreme weather events. Such events have the potential to adversely affect human health and are therefore a public health concern. Droughts, floods, and wildfires have occurred in Utah, but the question is whether climate change will influence the frequency of these extreme weather events.

What Is Being Done?

The Utah Department of Health (UDOH) Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness is in operation to coordinate local, state, and federal agencies in assisting health care systems with emergency preparedness and how to respond when a disaster strikes. If a flood or any other type of disaster were to occur, the UDOH has implemented a 24-hour statewide support line to assist public health professionals and health care providers in supplying aid to the community. At the federal level, the CDC has a web page dedicated to educating the public on how to prepare for a flood and what should be done after a flood. Topics include water safety, sanitation and hygiene, mold, and precautions to take post-flooding. Flood information from the CDC can be accessed at [https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/]