Flooding Links: Tips, Cleanup, Protection, Preparedness

Here are some important links and flooding preparation details for Pittsburghers to remember:

River Conditions

Track water levels at the National Weather Service's Pittsburgh Web page.

Check the National Weather Service's Pittsburgh Hydrology Page for latest river conditions. This is the page that WTAE's team of Weather Watch 4 meteorologists consults regularly.

The link takes you to a color-coded map of Pittsburgh-area rivers.

Purple=Major Flooding
Red=Moderate Flooding
Orange=Minor Flooding
Yellow=Near Flood Stage

You can also check river ice reports and the current river forecast.

Observed and Forecast Levels (Ohio River - Point State Park)

City Of Pittsburgh Dept. Of Public Safety Flood Emergency Information

Allegheny County Flood Preparedness & Response Information

Fayette County Emergency Management Agency

Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency

FEMA: During A Flood

SLIDESHOW: Forecast, Flood Prep, River Crest Levels

Stay Updated: Get Our Weather Alerts Via E-mail Or Phone

Cleanup

If your home or business is affected by flood waters, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection wants the long difficult process of cleaning up to be a safe one.

Here is some info on the dos and don'ts of dealing with flood damage. If you're going to clean inside your home, watch out for wet and loose plaster, it can be dangerous. Also, watch for holes in the floor and loose boards or nails that may be sticking out.

What To Do Before, During And After A Flood

When it comes to cleaning, disinfect everything the flood waters have touched -- including walls and carpets -- with a 2 percent chlorine bleach solution. It is recommended to add 2 or 3 caps full of bleach to a bucket of water. Make sure you wear gloves and boots. Do not handle electrical equipment in wet areas.

If you have any scratches or wounds, don't let them come in contact with the water. All food, mattresses, carpets and rugs should be thrown out if they are touched by contaminated water. Always ventilate and dry the inside of the house before trying to repair or salvage anything.

The DEP says replacing appliances is usually not necessary. Washer, dryers and furnaces can usually be cleaned and then tested by a qualified technician.

Do not handle electrical equipment in wet areas.