Flood

Flood Preparedness Guidelines

Flooding is one of the most common and potentially dangerous natural hazards in New Jersey — and South Orange is no exception. With our low-lying areas and proximity to the East Branch of the Rahway River, residents must be vigilant and prepared.

The South Orange Office of Emergency Management (OEM) urges all residents to follow these guidelines to protect themselves, their families, and their property before, during, and after a flood.

Before a Flood: Be Proactive

🗺️ Know Your Risk

  • Determine if you live in or near a flood-prone area by checking FEMA flood maps or contacting South Orange OEM.
  • Familiarize yourself with local drainage patterns and the history of flooding on your street or in your neighborhood.
  • Sign up for South Orange emergency alerts at southorange.org to receive real-time updates.

📋 Create a Family Emergency Plan

  • Identify a safe evacuation route, such as South Orange Avenue heading west, and ensure all household members know the plan.
  • Choose a meeting place outside the affected area and a contact person outside the region.
  • Practice the plan with your family regularly.

📦 Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit

Include:

  • Drinking water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days)
  • Non-perishable food
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Phone chargers and a battery bank
  • First-aid kit and necessary medications
  • Important documents (in waterproof bags or scanned copies)
  • Clothes, toiletries, and blankets

🏠 Prepare Your Home

  • Clear gutters, storm drains, and curbside catch basins near your property.
  • Anchor fuel tanks and elevate critical utilities like heating systems, electrical panels, and appliances.
  • Keep sandbags or temporary flood barriers ready, especially if you live in a historically impacted area.

🐾 Prepare for Pets

  • Identify pet-friendly shelters or boarding options.
  • Include food, leashes, carriers, and vaccination records in your emergency kit.

During a Flood: Stay Alert and Act Quickly

📢 Stay Informed

  • Listen to alerts from South Orange OEM, Essex County, and NOAA Weather Radio.
  • Obey voluntary or mandatory evacuation orders. Remember:
    • Voluntary evacuations are strongly advised, especially for residents in non-elevated homes or with special needs.
    • Mandatory evacuations are legally enforceable. Remaining in your home may put your life — and the lives of first responders — at risk.

🚗 Evacuate Safely

  • Use designated evacuation routes, especially South Orange Avenue westbound.
  • Avoid shortcuts — roads may be flooded, blocked, or damaged.
  • Never drive or walk through flooded roads:
    • Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
    • 12 inches can sweep away most cars.
    • 2 feet of water can carry off SUVs and trucks.

🚫 Why You Should Never Drive Through Flood Water

  • Water is deeper than it looks
  • Hidden currents, road collapses, or debris may not be visible
  • Vehicles can stall, flood, or be swept away in seconds

🛠️ Carry a Window Punch in Your Car

If your vehicle becomes submerged or you're trapped, a window punch (emergency escape tool) can help you break a window and escape.

  • Small, affordable, and easy to use
  • Many models also include seatbelt cutters
  • Available on Amazon and at most major retailers
    • Available in various colors for easy visibility.

After a Flood: Stay Cautious

🏡 Returning Home

  • Do not return until OEM or emergency officials declare it safe.
  • Be cautious of electrical hazards, structural damage, and contaminated water.

🧽 Cleanup and Safety

  • Wear gloves, boots, and masks when cleaning up.
  • Discard items that cannot be properly disinfected.
  • Take photos of damage for insurance claims before starting repairs.

Helpful Resources

Being prepared can save lives. Take these steps now to ensure you and your loved ones are ready in the event of a flood.