Heavy rain can turn routine commutes into road closures in Arlington, especially when area creeks swell and the Loosahatchie River rises. If you have wondered whether your street or yard could flood, you are not alone. In this guide, you will get a clear, local checklist to prepare your home, protect your finances, and stay safe before, during, and after a flood. Let’s dive in.
- Recent local context: The National Weather Service issued recent Flood Warnings on the Loosahatchie River near Arlington, and local outlets have covered flash flooding in Arlington.
- Flood maps are not the whole story: Studies show many flood claims occur outside mapped high risk zones. Zone X is lower risk, not zero risk.
- Use multiple alerts: Review the Town of Arlington’s siren and alert guidance and keep phone alerts and a NOAA Weather Radio.
Know your flood risk in Arlington
- Look up your property’s flood zone on FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center and Know Your Risk page. Maps show Special Flood Hazard Areas and lower risk zones.
- Confirm what maps may miss. Local drainage, heavy downpours, or sewer backup can still cause issues outside high risk areas. National guidance notes a meaningful share of claims occur beyond mapped zones.
- Ask local officials about site specifics. Town or county staff can advise on past flooding, drainage concerns, and permits. Also follow the Town’s guidance on outdoor sirens and alerts.
Quick actions you can do in 1–2 days
- Buy flood insurance now. NFIP policies generally have a 30 day waiting period before coverage starts, so plan ahead. Learn more from the NFIP overview for agents and consumers here.
- Document your home and valuables. Take photos and videos of rooms, appliances, and serial numbers. Store digital copies safely. FEMA explains how to document damages after a storm.
- Build a family plan. Set a meeting place, share contacts, and map two ways out of your neighborhood in case a usual route floods.
- Set up alerts. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, keep a weather radio, and review the Town of Arlington siren guidance.
Home improvements for weeks to months
- Direct water away from your foundation. Clean gutters, extend downspouts, and adjust grading so soil slopes away from the house.
- Install and test a sump pump, plus a battery backup if you have a basement or crawlspace. Discharge water away from the foundation.
- Elevate critical equipment. Raise HVAC units, water heaters, and electrical panels above expected flood levels where allowed.
- Consider flood openings for enclosed crawlspaces where appropriate, and discuss dry or wet floodproofing options with local officials before you proceed.
- For practical retrofit ideas and maintenance tips, see FEMA’s homeowner guidance in the Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting.
When flooding is imminent: hours ahead
- Move vehicles and valuables to higher ground. Get items off basement and first floor levels.
- Know how to shut off utilities. If advised and safe to do so, turn off electricity, gas, and water. Review Memphis Light, Gas & Water emergency guidance.
- Prepare your go bag. Include medications, important documents, cash, and chargers. Keep your phone charged.
During a flood: safety first
- Follow official instructions and evacuate when told. Do not delay.
- Follow the National Weather Service motto: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never drive through flooded roads or around barricades.
- Avoid moving water and downed lines. Do not touch wet electrical equipment. Report hazards to MLGW.
After a flood: first steps to recover
- Document damage before discarding items if it is safe. Take photos and videos of all rooms, structural areas, and the exterior. See FEMA’s guide on how to document damages.
- File your claim promptly. Contact your flood insurer for next steps and required forms. Keep receipts for emergency purchases and repairs.
- Clean up safely. Watch for structural damage, gas leaks, and mold. Ventilate, disinfect hard surfaces, and remove materials that cannot be cleaned safely. Check with local officials before major repairs, especially in high risk zones where permits or elevation rules can apply.
Local resources and next steps
- Town of Arlington and Shelby County: Use town alerts, siren updates, and county preparedness info to stay informed about warnings, road closures, and shelters.
- FEMA flood maps: Check your zone, base flood elevation, and map details. If you believe your property is incorrectly mapped, ask officials about map amendment options.
- Insurance and financing: Ask a licensed insurance agent about NFIP policy options and timelines. In some cases, mitigation grants may be available after disaster declarations, so keep in touch with local officials.
Ready to plan your move or prep your property with local insight? Connect with Kevin & Alli Clark - The Clark Team for neighborhood guidance across Arlington and the Memphis suburbs.
FAQs
What is the flood risk in Arlington, TN?
- Arlington experiences heavy rain and periodic river flooding, and nearby Loosahatchie River warnings and past local flash floods show that preparation is important even outside mapped high risk zones.
How long does NFIP flood insurance take to start in Arlington?
- Most new NFIP policies take about 30 days to become effective, so you should purchase coverage well before severe weather is forecast.
How do I check my home’s flood zone in Arlington?
- Use FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to view your address and then confirm details with local officials for site-specific history, drainage, and permitting.
What should I do if my usual route floods during storms?
- Never drive through floodwater, choose an alternate route, and follow official detours; plan two ways out of your neighborhood ahead of time.
Who should I call if I see downed power lines after flooding?
- Stay clear and contact Memphis Light, Gas & Water to report hazards; treat all downed lines as energized and keep others away.
Can I get help to elevate utilities or improve drainage?
- Ask local floodplain or permitting staff about available mitigation programs and contractor requirements; some grants may be available after federally declared disasters.
