Damage Level

Minor

Minor flooding possible. No significant structural or non-structural damage should be expected. Long-term displacement from living at home is unlikely. Minor floor and wall clean-up, if any, and 0-5% economic damage is predicted.

What to do

Have a working knowledge of your community transportation and infrastructure via maps or other information.
Consider possible personal risk factors or vulnerabilities and seek ways to minimize them.
Participate in community organizations that enhance community readiness.
Look for notifications via radio, web, social media and/or community contacts.
Consider medicine and food needs, in case the situation should change.
Continue to assess risks and incorporate risk reduction strategies.

Damage Level

Moderate

Damage of non-structural components, such as drywall and exposed utilities, can be expected. Short-term displacement, until repair of damaged non-structural components, is possible. 5-25% economic damage is predicted.

What to do

Familiarize yourself with locations and conditions of local bodies of water.
Secure developed points of contact among family and friends.
Maintain communication with other valuable people in your community to avoid isolation.
Consult with professionals regarding the condition of your home structure and potential maintenance needs.
Build or restock your emergency and evacuation kits.

Damage Level

Extensive

Heavy structural damages to some walls and columns should be expected. Non-structural components can also expect heavy damages. Long-term displacement, until complete repair (such as reconstruction), is possible. 25-50% economic damage is predicted.

What to do

Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans for evacuation.
Build or restock your emergency evacuation kits. Plan for flooding and be ready to evacuate early.
Establish or enact care plan for animals and pets.
Be prepared to use evacuation routes and know possible alternatives and evacuation centers.
Take note of coastal areas subject to flash flooding and storm surge.
Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
Secure hazardous items away from potential water or wind exposure.
Secure or move furniture, electrical items, and valuables to a higher level.
Secure important personal documents, valuables, and vital medical supplies into a waterproof container in an accessible location.
Secure household items needed to shelter in place.

Damage Level

Total Failure

Irreparable damage and complete loss of use to structural and non-structural components can be expected. Long-term or permanent displacement may be possible. Greater than 50% economic damage is predicted.

What to do

Gather and secure all of your important documents such as birth certificates, insurance documents and banking information.
Assess your current health status and members of your family.
Establish a plan to remain from home for several days to weeks, if necessary.
Take inventory of all prescription drugs and medical devices needed.
Arrange for a safe meeting spot and share with all members of your family, in case you are separated.
If sheltering in a place, gather several days (or weeks) of water and food supplies.
Assess your current evacuation plan, routes, and community resources for mitigating risks and hazards.
Learn to use community, state, and national services to stay informed.