Possible SHTF Scenario

[jbilbrey]

All,

I live in a major metropolitan area in the Southeastern portion of the U.S.  Anyhow, there is a very large reservoir about 200 river miles upstream that some officials are worrying about a possible failure.  If so, it could possibly flood out portions of this major metropolitan area (depending on a variety of factors outside of this group).

Since this might qualify as a regional SHTF, I've tried to think about possible scenarios and outcomes.  First of all, my house would not be flooded, so I have the "fight or flee" option.  If I flee until things get better, end of story.  However if i stick around, one thing I have to worry about is the lack of electricity.  Possibly up to three other dams would be affected as well as some high-tension lines that could be knocked out.  Next, is a possible disruption of drinking water.  I would have close to 24 hours of warning, so I ought to be able to get some drinking water stored in a reasonable amount of time.  With the lack of electricity comes the inability to pump gas, so I see a need to make sure the vehicles are filled with  gas with some extra in gas cans.  I would need to make sure I have some propane for the grill as well as food that can easily be cooked on it.

I may have to travel during this time (by vehicle) so I am thinking some sort of fire-arm in the vehicle "just-in-case".  I am not worried about the weapon while I am at work as it would be in a fenced-in compound.

Is there anything that I might be missing here?  Any thoughts?

James

[cvasqu03]

Food.  Groceries can't be delivered to the supermarkets through flooded areas.

Disease.  Standing water could cause a bit of a health crisis.

Insects.  Standing water will also attract lots of insects so be prepared to deal with it.

I'm sure there are other things that people will chime in on.

[wheatie]

I live in a city near a river, and my first purchase for a flood scenerio was a small boat. Even if your place doesn't get flooded....you may need to go somewhere that is.

[1952Sniper]

I may have to travel during this time (by vehicle) so I am thinking some sort of fire-arm in the vehicle "just-in-case". I am not worried about the weapon while I am at work as it would be in a fenced-in compound.

The idea of traveling in a SHTF situation calls for extra precautions beyond simply carrying a firearm.  If it really turns ugly, you do NOT want to be traveling alone.  You can't drive and shoot at the same time.  I don't know what your options are with your family/friends/coworkers/neighbors, but it would be a very good idea to have someone who you can trust to "ride shotgun" anytime you have to drive somewhere.  This should be considered non-negotiable.  If you're traveling, have a gunner/copilot with you.

[etdbob]

Not to mention, what happends to your home while your away at work?
Lots of flooded out refugees wandering about the place don't ya know.
I don't think you've thought out the whole security aspect.

Are you sure your place of work would have power? If they were shut down for an extended period of time how would your finances hold up?

Water, sewage disposal, coooking, heating and light without electricity at home would be concerns you might have to deal with.

[jbilbrey]

Good point about the bug spray.  I had forgotten about that (so used to them here).  Also good point on having some one riding shotgun if I have to go anyone.  A coworker lives not too far from where I do.  I'm not going to worry about a boat as I don't have to cross the particular body of water for any reason.

As far as going to work, it would be part of the disaster relief.  But, you all raised a good point about that would leave the home defenseless.  Hmm, more thinking to do.

James