3 days Ago
A flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 6:57 a.m. in effect until 1 p.
m. for Clinton and Essex counties. The weather service states, "Flooding caused by rain and/or snowmelt and/or ice jam is expected for Clinton and Essex counties.
" "Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is imminent or occurring. Depending on ice behavior, any release of the ice jam could result in sudden rises of water, leading to a rapid flooding situation," explains the weather service. "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads.
Most flood deaths occur in vehicles." A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it's crucial to move immediately to higher ground.
A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall. A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway. A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning.
However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property. A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver: Seek higher ground: If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground. Adhere to evacuation orders: If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.
Disconnect utilities and appliances: If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding. Avoid basements and submerged areas: Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords.
Preventing electrical accidents is crucial. Swift evacuation for your safety: If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.
Refrain from walking in floodwaters: Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet. Seek high ground if trapped: Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.
When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it appears. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles.
Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared. When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards: Beware of swollen waterways: In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.
Maintain safe driving distances: Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness. Slow down and stay cautious: If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down.
Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid. Choose your lane wisely: Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning.
Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water. Prioritize visibility: Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads: Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery. Keep a safe distance from large vehicles: Don't follow large trucks or buses too closely.
The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely. Mind your windshield wipers: By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down.
Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound. Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service..
