Surface Water Management Division
The Four Flood Phases
Floods can occur in any month, but most commonly occur between November and February during periods of heavy rain or rapid snow melt. During a flood, agencies respond in four phases depending on the severity of expected flooding, with Phase 4 being the most severe.
During Phases 2, 3, 4, flood updates and warnings are reported to police, fire departments, schools, other agencies, and news media.
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Phase
1 |
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During Phase 1, actual flooding is rare.
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County staff are put on alert.
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Preparations are made to open the county's Emergency Operations Center. |
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Phase
2 |
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Minor flooding and some road closures may occur.
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The county Emergency Operations Center opens.
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Staff begin monitoring river gages and flood conditions around the clock.
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Flood information phone lines are updated hourly with current river gage/river level information. |
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Phase
3 |
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Moderate to severe flooding, with numerous road closures and some levee overtopping can be expected.
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Investigation crews are sent to monitor flood control facilities such as levees. |
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Phase
4 |
- All agencies respond in anticipation of major flooding and widespread damage.
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What areas flood in each phase?