This page provides flood warning information and dam break flood warning to the residents who live in or near a dam inundation zone i.e., areas that may flood if a dam fails. Property that is in a dam break inundation zone is at risk of flooding.
Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States and may occur at any time.
A dam is a man-made barrier that collects and confines water. Dam break inundation zones are areas that may flood if a dam fails. Property that is located in a dam break inundation zone is at risk of flooding.
The Stormwater Planning Division develops and updates a Flood Protection Information Newsletter for residents who live in or near a floodplain. The newsletter includes important flood protection related information including flood proofing, flood safety, drainage service requests, elevation certificates, flood insurance, and permits for building improvements
During inclement weather, the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services monitors state-regulated dams they operate. An electronic flood warning system has been implemented to monitor water levels at these dams. Fairfax County uses the following methods to warn residents about flooding and other emergencies:
Flood and Emergency Warning Systems
Fairfax Alerts delivers emergency information to county residents before, during and after a crisis and provides notices about severe weather and traffic congestion. Messages are delivered to all devices registered and may include email, cell and home phones, pagers and other wireless devices.
There are important safety measures that residents and business owners should take in preparation for a flood that include planning, preparing and mitigating. Make a plan before there is an emergency. Build an emergency kit for yourself and your family. Don’t forget your pets.
To help prepare your family, home and business for a disaster, the Office of Emergency Management provides information at Department of Emergency Management and Security or call 571-350-1000, TTY 711.
For More information
For more information about county-maintained dams and flooding call the staff of the Stormwater Planning Division at 703-324-5500, TTY 711, or email SWPDmail@fairfaxcounty.gov for assistance. Learn more about Stormwater Management.