-Staff reports-
Parts of Georgia could see flooding due to heavy rain later this week as the National Hurricane Center issues its first tropical advisory of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. The system is expected to bring periods of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and a risk of flash flooding across the region on Thursday and Friday.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Bartow and Polk Counties until Friday evening.
“It’s important to be prepared and know what to do in case of flooding or other storm threats,” said Adelaide Kirk, regional disaster officer for the American Red Cross of Georgia. “Make sure you understand the difference between a flood watch and a warning, and have a plan in place to keep your family safe.”
The American Red Cross urges everyone to take steps now to prepare for severe weather:
Get Ready for Flooding
· Pack your emergency kit. Include a gallon of water per person, per day – 3 days for evacuation, 2-week supply for home. Also pack a 3-day supply of non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery or hand crank radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, medications, sanitation and personal hygiene items, a cell phone with charger, family and emergency contact information, extra cash, a map of the area, and items for babies, anyone with special needs, and your pets.
· Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued.
· Get access to NOAA radio broadcasts.
· Keep insurance policies, valuables, and other important documents in a safe deposit box or a safe place not likely to be damaged in a flood. Take pictures and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you.
· Don’t forget your pets. Prepare a pet emergency kit for your companion animals.
Right Before a Flood
· Know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means that a flood or flash flood is possible in your area, while a warning means that flooding/flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.
· Listen to local area radio, NOAA radio, or TV stations for the latest information and updates.
· Be prepared to evacuate quickly if directed and know your routes and destinations. If someone needs to find a shelter, they can visit redcross.org/shelter.
· Check emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply. Keep it nearby.
During a Flood
· Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground. Evacuate if directed. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
· Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage.
· Continue listening to local area radio, NOAA radio, or TV stations for the latest information and updates.
· Avoid already flooded areas and areas that are subject to sudden flooding, such as dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. Stay away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains.
· Do not attempt to cross flowing streams or water-covered roads.
· If caught in a flash flood, try to get to higher ground and stay there. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over, and two feet will float a car.
· Turn around and find another route if you come upon floodwater, rapidly rising water, or barricades.
· Don’t allow children to play in or near floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage.
Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts, open shelters, and expert advice on emergency situations. The Emergency App includes an “I’m Safe” feature that helps people check on loved ones. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores, or go to redcross.org/apps.
