Old North News

City of Charlotte issued the following announcement on Aug. 26. 

Temperatures continue to soar across the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area and the summer heat can bring a chance of thunderstorms and tropical systems. Flooding is the biggest natural disaster in our area, and now is the time to be prepared and stay informed for potential heavy rain events. Check out these resources offered by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office and community partners.

Get the Latest Rainfall and Stream-Level Data

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Flood Information and Notification System (FINS) provides the latest rainfall and stream-level data throughout Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. To use FINS:

• Go to the FINS website.
• On the map, click the rain or stream gauge nearest your location.
• Review rainfall and stream height information for the past 12-72 hours.
• Review historical rainfall and stream-level data.

To provide this critical information, FINS utilizes:

• 71 rain gauges that collect rainfall data; 46 of these gauges alert fire, police, emergency management and MEDIC services when there is a threat of or actual flooding. 
• 52 stream gauges that collect stream-level information; 14 gauges send warnings to emergency responders when issues arise.

Storm Water Services has also partnered with the United States Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate to place 100 additional, low-cost flood sensors across the area to help measure stream levels. Storm Water Services staff will soon integrate the sensors into the FINS system, producing data and tools such as real-time maps to help first responders during a heavy rain event. 

Sign Up for CharMeck Alerts

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management Office provides timely and accurate emergency information, including updates on flooding, through its CharMeck Alerts Notification System. CharMeck Alerts allows you to decide what types of alerts you would like to receive and how you would like to receive them, whether via phone call, text, push notification or email. Alerts are geographically targeted and include options for both emergency alerts and non-emergency alerts related to your local government services.

Register for CharMeck Alerts.

Protect your Property by Getting Flood Insurance

Traditional homeowner and renter insurance policies do not cover flooding, but the National Flood Insurance Program is available to all, even property owners who don't live in a floodplain.

With the peak of hurricane season quickly approaching in mid-September, it is important to remember that there is typically a 30-day waiting period after purchasing flood insurance. Learn more at floodsmart.gov. 

Original source can be found here.

Source: City of Charlotte