The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for Lancaster County at 10:22 a.m. on Friday, which was in force until 1:30 p.m.
According to the NWS, Doppler radar showed thunderstorms and slow-moving, heavy showers training over the same area and causing heavy rain over the advised area. Flash flooding is occurring or is predicted to start soon, according to the weather service, with up to two inches of rain already falling and more on the horizon.
Small creeks and streams, cities, highways, streets, underpasses, and other low-lying, poorly-drained locations may all be affected.
Lititz, Mount Joy, Manheim, East Petersburg, and Salunga-Landisville are among the areas that are impacted by the warning.
Avoid operating a vehicle on flooded roadways.
Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts
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Flash flood warning: Take action!
When a flash flood is approaching or already happening, a warning is sent. Get to high ground right away if you’re in a flood-prone location. A flash flood is a quick, intense flood that can form in a matter of minutes to hours. Even in places that don’t get rain right away, flash floods can happen.
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Flood warning: Take action!
When flooding is about to occur or has already started, a flood warning is issued.
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Flood advisory: Be aware:
When flooding is not predicted to be severe enough to warrant a warning, a flood advisory is issued. But if care is not taken, it could result in circumstances that endanger life and/or property and cause a great deal of discomfort.
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Flood watch: Be prepared:
When the weather is conducive to flooding, a flood watch is issued. Although it does not ensure that flooding will happen, it does indicate that there is a possibility.
When floods strike: Guidelines from the weather service for your protection
Knowing and adhering to the weather service’s flood safety recommendations can be extremely helpful when camping in low-lying areas or in places that are prone to flooding:
Go to a higher location:
Moving to higher ground is the first line of defense if you live in an area that floods easily or are camping in a low-lying area.
Respect evacuation directives:
Immediately comply with any evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Make sure your house is locked before you leave.
Cut off appliances and utilities:
Disconnect your appliances and utilities if you have the time. By doing this, the possibility of electrical risks during floods is decreased.
Steer clear of waterlogged regions and basements:
Avoid basements or rooms with electrical outlets or cords submerged in water. This lessens the chance of electrical mishaps.
Quick evacuation to keep you safe:
Evacuate right away if you see sparks or hear popping, crackling, buzzing, or snapping sounds. Steer clear of any water that might be electrically charged.
Avoid the floodwaters:
Never try to cross flooding on foot. Six inches of quickly flowing water can knock you off your feet with force.
If you’re stuck, look for high ground:
If you find yourself caught by flowing water, move to the highest spot you can and dial 911 to reach rescue personnel.
Flooding may occur during periods of intense precipitation, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone locations. Even if the water doesn’t seem deep, you should never drive across it. The weather service claims that most cars can be washed away with just 12 inches of surging water. Put your safety first by being aware and ready.
Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads
If heavy rainfall persists or if runoff is substantial, flooding may result. Saturated soils and/or heavy rainfall can cause excessive runoff. To keep safe during periods of intense rain, heed these weather service recommendations:
Watch out for flooding rivers:
Avoid parking or strolling close to drainage ditches or culverts during periods of intense rain, since the swift-moving water can be quite dangerous.
Keep your distances from other vehicles safe:
To keep a safe following distance behind the car in front of you, follow the two-second rule. To account for decreased traction and braking efficiency in heavy weather, give yourself an extra two seconds.
Slow down and drive carefully:
Lowering your speed is essential on wet roads. To prevent skidding, gently release the gas pedal and refrain from applying sudden braking.
Pick your lane carefully:
To reduce the chance of hydroplaning, stay in the middle lanes. Water is more likely to accumulate in outside lanes.
Put visibility first:
As rain-spattered windows make it more difficult to see other vehicles, turn on your headlights and pay attention to those in blind spots and behind you.
Be cautious on slick roads:
Roads are slickest during the first half-hour of rain because of a combination of rain, oil, and filth. Be especially careful during this time.
Stay a safe distance away from big cars:
Tire spray from big vehicles and buses can make it harder to see. Pass them quickly and safely, and refrain from tailgating.
Be mindful of your wipers:
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Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
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If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
Taking these safety measures will significantly improve your road safety while it’s raining a lot. For a safe trip, keep yourself updated on weather conditions and follow local authorities’ instructions.
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