In Norway, the weather is monitored continuously, and we tend to get advance warning of major floods, either through weather warnings or special flood warnings. This allows individuals and the authorities to prepare as well as possible.

Get moveable objects out of harm’s way

If you keep any moveable objects like caravans, boats or other such items in the garden, get them out of harm’s way or secure them. These items tend to be valuable. They can also cause huge damage to bridges and buildings if they are swept downstream by the flood.

Review your self-preparedness supplies 

Flooding can damage infrastructure such as roads, power grids and water pipes, causing you to become isolated, lose power, cellular service and tap water. It can also lead to both the municipality and emergency services having many simultaneous tasks. That is why it is a good idea to check your self-preparedness supplies when flooding are reported where you live. Read more about self-preparedness for a week. 

Clean out gutters and drains

Think ‘prevention’ and make good use of the time you have before the flood arrives. To limit the damage to your property, you should pay particular attention to ensuring that your gutters are clear and that drainpipes and drains are not blocked by leaves or twigs. Also get valuable items out of the cellar. Check that windows and doors are properly closed, particularly in the cellar.

Pre-flood checklist:

• Clear your garden of moveable objects
• Move or secure moveable objects such as boats or caravans
• Clean out gutters, drainpipes and drains
• Get valuables and electrical appliances out of the cellar
• Close windows and doors properly

The website varsom.no has information about when or if there will be flooding in your area.