Floods and Flash Floods

Floods and Flash Floods

Current Flood Forecasts

Excluding fire, floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters. Most communities experience some kind of flooding after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms or winter snow thaw. Dam failures can also produce flooding. Flash floods result from intense storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief period with little or no warning. Since 1900, floods have killed more than 10,000 people throughout the United States. Fifty people died in the Midwest floods in 1993 and four died in Roanoke as a result of flooding in 1985.

The city of Roanoke is committed to protecting people and their property from floods, as well as helping reduce rates that its citizens pay for flood insurance. The following provides important information on flooding hazards, and can also help qualify all city residents for a reduction in flood insurance rates. Please read it and share appropriate information and safety tips with all members of your household. If you have any questions, please call the Office of the City Engineer at 540-853-2731.

Local Flood Hazard	Permit Requirements
Flood Warning	Drainage Maintenance
Flood Safety Information	Natural Functions
Flood Zones and Insurance	FEMA Information
Property Protection	Flood Mitigation Projects