One of the largest dangers to humans and animals during a storm or strong weather is flooding. Flooding normally entails high-rising and/or fast-moving water that can damage structures and sweep away anything in its path.  

After flood waters stop rising, they continue to pose critical dangers as waters can carry dangerous physical, chemical or biological hazards with them. This is why the warnings of flooding should be taken seriously.  

One term used frequently when discussing weather systems and flooding is “storm surge”. But what exactly is “storm surge”? 

According to the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA),  
“storm surge is an abnormal water level rise generated by a storm over and above the predicted astronomical tide. Storm tide is the water level rise due to the combination of storm surge and the astronomical tide. When a storm surge coincides with normal high tide, resulting in storm tides reaching up to 20 feet or more in some cases.” 

This, often sudden rise in water level can cause extreme flooding in coastal areas. On top of the dangers of extreme flooding, storm surges are often combined with rough seas, heavy waves and strong currents. Combining these elements and humans, animals, trees, and natural and manmade structures are all in danger.  

Storm surge, storm flood, tidal surge and storm tide have all been used interchangeably to describe coastal flooding commonly associated with cyclones (like hurricanes). While most notable storm surges have coincided with hurricanes, even lakes and other large bodies of water can see this effect. The main factor contributing to the surge of water on land is strong winds pushing water up and over the ground.  

With all impending storms, make sure to listen to authorities for up-to-date news, watches and warnings, and prepare your family (including your pets).  Along with keeping an eye on hurricane storm maps, it is equally important to keep track of hurricane storm surge charts and maps to stay safe. 

What should you do to keep you and your pets safe during storm surge? Read our Flooding Guide here.