Residents of the Tampa Bay area are no strangers to the threat of flooding, given the region's flat topography and extensive coastline. Responding to this persistent issue, officials have released a detailed guide on how to defend residences from potential water damage. According to a publication from Hillsborough County, maintaining proper water runoff and drainage is crucial for protecting the exterior of your home. This includes cleaning gutters, ensuring downspouts and splashpads are clear, and checking that local drainage systems are operating effectively.

Adjusting the landscape to facilitate water runoff is another important strategy. Hillsborough County's recommendations spell out the importance of lot grading by observing how water amasses around your property during rainfall and adjusting accordingly so that stormwater drains away from your dwelling. The report also suggests reducing impervious surfaces which can lead to quick runoff and strain on storm sewers, and, instead, promoting natural greenspaces.

For the interior of homes, the county emphasizes the necessity of safeguarding valuable possessions and improving the structure's water resistance. Hillsborough County advises: "Move important documents and other valuable or sentimental items to a safer location, well above the potential flood elevation and/or inside watertight containers." Recommended actions include sealing foundations and basements against seepage, installing flood vents to equalize water pressure during floods, and using sump pumps to redirect groundwater.

Efforts to prevent sewer backups are also advised, such as installing drain plugs and backflow valves, which allow water to flow only in one direction. Additionally, incorporating flood-resistant building materials in homes, raising electrical systems and utilities, and anchoring fuel tanks can further bolster a house's resiliency. Integrating a flood alert system is suggested as a means to provide early warnings, enabling homeowners to act swiftly to mitigate imminent flood risks.

Hillsborough County's guide represents a comprehensive approach to flood defense, combining structural improvements, preventative maintenance, and proactivity. As the guide outlines, readiness and adaptation to the inherent flood risks of the Tampa Bay area can significantly reduce the potential harm to homes and property.