Top Considerations for Managing Flood Risk

Floods are the most common weather-related disaster, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency notes that just 1 inch of water inside a structure can cause up to $25,000 in damage.  

School administrators should understand their coverage and take these steps to control the impact of floods on your schools. 

Lay the Foundation 

Spring is prime flood season, with 75% of flash flood reports in the U.S. occurring between late April and mid-September, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration notes that. You can't predict floods, but you can prepare to respond swiftly. 

Know the Risk Factors 

Floods can happen anywhere, even in areas that aren’t near lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water. Risk factors include: 

• Nearby ocean, river or stream that could experience storm surge 
• Nearby hills or valleys that cause rain to quickly run into rivers 
• Inadequate flood control or prevention measures such as dams, sea walls, and diversion canals 
• Urban areas where roads, buildings, and parking lots prevent rain from absorbing into the ground 
• Nearby construction that alters drainage areas around campus buildings. 

Know Your Coverage

Fund Property coverage includes a flood endorsement. The endorsement provides coverage depending on the zone where the covered property is located. FEMA flood maps help determine the zones for your covered property. You can also use them to assess and plan for flood risk in your district. For detailed information about coverage, contact your TASB marketing consultant. 

Protect People, Property, and Vehicles 

Flash floods can happen within a few minutes of heavy rainfall or a dam or levee failure. Follow these tips to ensure your organization is ready to respond quickly. 

Before a Flood 

Protect infrastructure and data by planning for power outages, ensuring backup power for sump pumps, elevating electrical equipment, storing backup files off site, and adding, cleaning, or repairing sewer line valves.  

Stay prepared and informed by keeping emergency operation plans up to date (including a severe-weather annex), monitoring weather and flood warnings, and moving vehicles from low-lying areas to higher ground. 

During a Flood 

Monitor conditions and follow official guidance using social media, local news, and NOAA Weather Radio, and by coordinating with local emergency management and first responders for road closures and damage assessments. 

Avoid hazardous areas such as floodplains, pooled water, low-water crossings, and locations where water covers electrical outlets or submerged cords.  

Ensure staff and driver safety by communicating alternate routes to fleet teams and reminding staff and students never to walk or drive through floodwaters or around barricades, which is illegal and potentially deadly. 

After a Flood 

Ensure building and equipment safety by avoiding entry if floodwater is present, gas odors are detected, or electrical hazards may exist; contacting the power company for guidance; and inspecting for structural damage such as cracked walls or sagging roofs.  

Restore systems carefully by cleaning, drying, and testing electrical equipment before turning it on and refraining from using toilets until sewer lines are confirmed undamaged.  

Remain alert to secondary hazards such as displaced wildlife, debris, slippery surfaces, and insurance or Fund coverage responsibilities as outlined in your coverage agreement. 

Related resource: HSB’s Flood Recovery Action Steps for Equipment 

Controlling Mold in Schools 

Wet carpet, walls, and furniture make perfect breeding grounds for mold. Left unchecked, mold in schools can harm indoor air quality and cause coughs, sneezing, and itchy eyes. More-serious symptoms can include allergic reactions and asthma attacks. 

To reduce the risk, dry out everything: 

• Run your HVAC system to remove moisture from facilities. 
• Use wet vacs to clear water from flooring. 
• Circulate air with fans and air movers. 
• Pick up furniture and other items sitting on wet floors. 
• Remove wet, damaged materials. 

For more information about mold in schools, see the Environmental Protection Agency’s Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings Guide. 

Read this Before Hiring Mold Removal Professionals 

Anyone conducting mold assessment and remediation services is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). TASB Facility Services employs licensed mold assessment consultants and offers indoor air quality services, including mold assessments.  

Do You Have a Plan? 

One inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in facility damage, according to FEMA. The risk doesn’t always recede with the flood. Address risks before staff or students re-enter flooded facilities or power up machinery or electrical equipment. 

Your emergency operations plan severe weather annex should document how you will protect people and property during spring storm season. 

Editor's note: This article was originally published in April 2023. It has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.