A map, provided by First One, shows dots over properties in Shepherdstown that are at risk for flooding. Courtesy photo

SHEPHERDSTOWN — Flooding typically takes place in Shepherdstown, from fall through the early spring months. Taking precautions to prevent flooding from causing more damage than necessary, is an essential step to ensure flood preparedness.

Jefferson County Homeland Security and Emergency Management (JCHSEM) has recently stepped up its efforts to encourage more local residents to engage in flood preparedness. On Thursday, JCHSEM Public Affairs Coordinator Stephen Rivera sent out a news release, sharing tips on how Shepherdstown’s residents can prepare for flooding in the future.

“Jefferson County’s unique location at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, along with the Opequon Creek and numerous streams, makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding,” Rivera said. “While flooding can happen during any season, nearly all major floods are produced by winter and spring rains falling on already saturated snow-covered or frozen soil. As one of the most dangerous and deadly weather events in the United States, flooding poses a significant risk to our community.

“With this in mind, it is crucial to take proactive steps now to protect yourself, your family, your property and your community,” Rivera said.

According to data provided by the climate risk data foundation First Street, 31.3 percent of properties in Shepherdstown are currently at risk for flooding. That number will likely increase over the next 30 years, due to climate change producing stronger storms, which increase the effect of flooding.

Before a flood takes place, JCHSEM advises residents and property owners to prepare, by following three steps. First, they should know their risk for flooding, by entering their location in the West Virginia Flood Tool to assess its flood risk. Second, they should get flood insurance, as home insurance does not cover flooding. Rivera noted that “it typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect, so the time to buy flood insurance is before a flooding disaster.” Third, they should safeguard important documents, by storing them in waterproof containers and creating password-protected digital copies.

If a food does occur, residents and property owners are encouraged to avoid bridges, which fast-moving water can wash away unexpectedly; avoid floodwaters, which are not safe to walk, swim or drive through; and take appropriate action, by immediately following instructions to evacuate.

After a flood, it is best for civilians to wait for notifications from local authorities, especially regarding when it is safe to return home. They should also exercise caution, by avoiding wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated, contain dangerous debris or even by electrically charged by underground or downed power lines. JCHSEM also recommends that, while cleaning up a flooded location, people should wear safety gear, such as heavy work gloves, protective clothing, boots and face coverings or masks, especially if cleaning mold.

“Remember — flooding can happen at any time, but your preparation can make all the difference,” Rivera said. “Together, we can build a more resilient community in the face of natural disasters.”