The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for Montgomery County on Wednesday at 8:53 p.m., which will be in force until Thursday at 1 a.m.
According to the meteorological service, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected for Montgomery county.”
Rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying, flood-prone areas are either already flooding or will soon do so. Because of the surplus runoff from the earlier rainfall, streams are still rising, according to the weather service. “Avoid drowning when you come across flooded roadways. Vehicles are the primary cause of flood fatalities. At night, when it is more difficult to identify the risks of flooding, use extra caution. There are hundreds of low-water crossings in steep areas, which could be hazardous during periods of intense precipitation. Avoid trying to cross roadways that are flooded. Look for a different path.
Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings
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Flash flood warning: Take action!
When a flash flood is either approaching or has already occurred, a warning is given. Moving to higher ground right away is essential in places that are prone to flooding. A flash flood is a quick, intense flood that can form in a matter of minutes to hours and even occur in places that aren’t currently receiving any rain.
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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 become severe enough to warrant a warning, a flood advisory is issued. However, it still has the potential to be extremely inconvenient and, if careless, to result in circumstances that endanger life and/or property.
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Flood watch: Be prepared:
When the weather is conducive to flooding, a flood watch is issued. Although it doesn’t ensure flooding will happen, it does indicate that it is a potential.
Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice from the weather service
Floods can be a serious hazard, particularly if you live in a flood-prone location or camp in a low-lying area. The weather service provides crucial flood protection instructions to protect you:
Go to a higher location:
Moving to higher ground should be your first course of action if you’re camping in a low-lying location or in an area that is prone to flooding.
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 taking this precaution, electrical dangers during flooding are reduced.
Avoid drowned places and flooding basements:
Stay away from rooms with electrical outlets or cords that are submerged in water or basements. Electrical accident prevention is essential.
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 going on foot in floodwaters:
Never try to cross flooding on foot. Six inches of quickly flowing water can knock you off your feet with force.
When stuck, look for higher ground:
If you find yourself caught by flowing water, move to the highest spot you can and dial 911 to reach rescue personnel.
Flooding is more likely to occur during times of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone locations. Driving through any water on the road, even if it appears to be shallow, must be avoided. The weather service claims that 12 inches of flowing water is enough to sweep away the majority of autos. Be knowledgeable and ready to stay safe.
Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall
Flooding and dangerous driving conditions increase when heavy rain starts. Being ready is crucial, regardless of the duration of the rainfall or the rate of runoff. The weather service has provided the following important safety advice to help you keep safe during periods of severe rain:
Watch out for flooding rivers:
Avoid parking or strolling close to culverts or drainage ditches during periods of intense precipitation, as the swift-moving water can be quite dangerous.
Keep your distances from other vehicles safe:
Keep a safe distance from the automobile ahead of you by following the two-second rule, and give yourself an extra two seconds if it’s raining a lot.
Slow down and drive carefully:
It’s crucial to slow down on wet roads. To avoid sliding, reduce the accelerator gradually and don’t brake suddenly.
Pick your lane carefully:
Water tends to pool in the outside lanes, so stick to the central ones.
Visibility is important.
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:
Avoid following buses or big vehicles too closely. Their big tires produce a mist that blurs your eyesight. Additionally, if you have to pass them, proceed with caution.
Be mindful of your wipers:
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Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
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When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate 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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