What to do if my home is flooding during a hurricane?
When a hurricane hits, it can go from rain to rising water in minutes. If your home begins to flood, panic can set in, but knowing what to do in those first few moments can save your life and protect what matters most. At Lightning Restoration, we’ve seen the devastating impact of natural disasters, and we’re here to help you act quickly, safely, and smartly.
Know the Risk Before the Rain Starts
Preparation begins long before a storm makes landfall. If you live in a flood-prone area or a coastal city like Tampa FL, it’s crucial to understand your home’s risk level. Check FEMA flood maps, follow local alerts, and review your insurance coverage. Knowing what to expect helps you react with confidence, not fear, when the water starts rising.
Act Early When Water Starts Rising
When water begins seeping into your home, don’t wait for things to get worse. Unplug electronics, move valuables to higher ground, and turn off your home’s electricity if it’s safe to do so. Acting early can minimize water damage restoration costs later and protect your family from electrical hazards.
Grab Your “Go Bag” If You Need to Leave Fast
Every household should have an emergency “go bag” ready. This should include:
- Water and snacks
- Medications
- Important documents
- Chargers
- Flashlights and batteries
- First-aid kit
If local authorities issue an evacuation order, grab your bag and leave immediately. Extreme weather can make roads impassable in minutes, so don’t delay.
Call for Help, But Don’t Wait Forever
If you’re trapped or unsure what to do, call emergency services right away. But remember: during widespread natural disasters, responders may be overwhelmed. Make smart decisions with the information and resources you have. Don’t wait until the last minute to move to higher ground inside your home if it’s unsafe to leave.
Stay Safe Inside if Evacuation Is Not Possible
If leaving is not an option, move to the highest and safest place in your home. Avoid lower levels or areas prone to flooding. Keep a phone, flashlight, and your emergency kit with you. Never attempt to wade through floodwater, it’s often contaminated and hides serious dangers.
After Water Stops, Don’t Rush Back
Once the water recedes and the skies clear, your instinct may be to head back and assess the damage. Wait until authorities declare your area safe. Flooded homes can contain electrical hazards, structural damage, and unseen risks. Safety first always.
Don’t Delay Water and Mold Cleanup
Flood restoration should begin as soon as possible. Delaying even 24–48 hours can lead to dangerous mold growth and extensive property damage. Call professionals like Lightning Restoration who specialize in emergency restoration services and hurricane damage cleanup.
We’ll help:
- Extract water quickly
- Remove the “flood muck” and apply disinfectants
- Dry and dehumidify affected areas
- Prevent mold and structural issues whenever possible
- Restore your home to pre-storm condition
Contact Insurance and Keep All Records
Keep in mind that Flood Insurance is not through your standard home insurance policy. It is a separate policy. Don’t burn valuable time by waiting for an adjuster from the wrong insurance company. Be sure to document everything. Keep a daily journal of your findings and actions. Take clear photos and videos of all damage before cleanup begins. Keep receipts for repairs, cleanup, and temporary housing. Contact your appropriate insurance company early, and know your policy’s coverage for water damage restoration after a hurricane.
How to Prep Better for Next Time
Recovery is tough, but it’s also a chance to prepare better. For the future:
- Invest in flood barriers or sandbags
- Store valuables higher up
- Seal foundation cracks
- Review insurance annually
- Save the number of a trusted flood restoration company
At Lightning Restoration, we help families not only recover, but build resilience for the future.
Final Thoughts
Flooding during a hurricane is a terrifying experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. Stay calm, act smart, and lean on the experts for help. From immediate emergency restoration services to long-term hurricane damage cleanup, Lightning Restoration is here when you need us most.
Need help after a flood?
Contact Lightning Restoration 24/7 for expert water damage restoration and disaster recovery in the Tampa Bay area.