Although today is bright and sunny, spring time often sees extended periods of drenching rains. Upper Moreland Township has several areas that are susceptible to flooding, causing the roadways to become impassible and dangerous.

The reason that so many people drown during flooding is because few of them realize the incredible power of water. A mere six-inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only two-feet of rushing water to carry away a vehicle. This includes trucks and SUVs.

Get prepared before the storm hits. UMPD encourages you to follow these safety tips when we are experiencing heavy rains and potential flooding conditions:

1. Avoid driving, if at all possible, during storm warnings. Monitor the internet, social media, radio and television (including NOAA weather radio) for weather advisories and flooding alerts. Encourage your friends and family to register at uppermorelandpd.org for up-to-the-minute storm details, updates and road closures pertaining to our Township.
2. If directed to evacuate – do so immediately! If you live in a flood prone area, leave the area immediately if you see the waters begin to rise.
3. Know the areas that can flood quickly during intense rains and avoid them completely. In Upper Moreland Township, these areas are Masons Mill Road, Davisville Road south of the YMCA, the intersection of York Road and Warminster Road, the intersection of Blair Mill Road and Home Road, and the intersection of Byberry Road and Pioneer Road.  While these areas are routinely impassible during flood conditions, others can be just as dangerous, depending on conditions.  Blocked storm drains and other environmental factors could make a relatively dry street in your area suddenly flood-prone.  Use caution any time you see standing or running water.
4. Always err on the side of caution. If a roadway appears to have water covering it, it is likely to be much deeper than expected. This is especially true during the dark, when your vision is more limited. Turn around!
5. Avoid driving through floodwater: Driving through floodwater is dangerous, as it only takes 12-inches of water to for a small sedan or SUV to float. You should also avoid driving through large puddles. They may look shallower than they are, and can disguise hazards such as a washed-out roadways or sharp debris.
6. Downed utility wires are also common during storms that include high winds and rain.  For your safety, assume that ALL wires are electrical and live. Do not go near them or try to handle them.

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UMPD encourages you to use a dry and sunny day to prepare for the stormy days:

1. DO keep a supply of batteries and flashlights if electricity is lost. Be aware of potential storms and keep cell phones charged in advance of losing power.
2. DO NOT call 9-1-1 for a loss of power. Call your provider.
3. DO call 9-1-1 for assistance if a member of your household is reliant on a medical device/medication requiring electricity and electricity is unavailable for an extended amount of time causing medical distress.  
4. DO call 9-1-1 to report utility poles that are arcing or sparking. Police/Fire will be dispatched to assure there is no immediate fire hazard until the pole can be checked by the provider.

Keep the following phone numbers and websites handy:

PECO - Current Outages | PECO - An Exelon Company

Emergency: 1-800-841-4141.  If you see downed power lines or smell natural​ gas, leave the area immediately and then call PECO. Representatives are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

Report an electric emergency:   1-800-841-4141
Report a gas emergency:  1-800-841-4141
Report a gas emergency (alternate number):  1-844-841-4151

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