The National Weather Service issued a new flash flood warning for Beaver and Butler counties on Wednesday at 9:24 p.m., which is in force until 11:45 p.m.
“Light rain was still falling over the advised area at 9:24 p.m., according to Doppler radar. There has been two to three inches of rain. In the cautioned region, more rainfall of up to 0.25 inches is possible. According to the weather service, flash flooding is either already occurring or is predicted to start soon. “Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.”
Cranberry, Aliquippa, Monaca, Economy, Baden, Conway, Freedom, and East Rochester are among the places affected by the warning.
When you come across flooded roads, the weather service advises you to turn around and avoid drowning. The majority of flood fatalities involve automobiles.
Breaking down weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings
-
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.
-
Flood warning: Take action!
When flooding is expected or is happening, a flood warning is issued.
-
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.
-
Flood watch: Be prepared:
When the weather is conducive to flooding, a flood watch is issued. Flooding is not guaranteed, but it is a possibility.
Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice from the weather service
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:
Look for higher ground.
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:
Respond quickly to any evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Secure your home by locking it 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.
Steer clear of waterlogged regions and 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.
floods is a possibility when there is a lot of rain, especially in areas that are low-lying and prone to floods. No matter how deep the water looks, it is crucial to never try to drive through it on the road. The weather service claims that most cars can be washed away by rushing water as little as 12 inches. Put your safety first by being aware and ready.
Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather
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 swift water flow:
When it rains a lot, stay clear from parking or strolling near culverts or drainage ditches since the swift-moving water could carry you away.
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.
Reduce your speed and exercise caution:
Reduce your speed if it’s raining and the roads are wet. Reduce your speed gently by taking your foot off the accelerator. Never apply the brakes abruptly since this could cause the vehicle to slide.
Pick your lane carefully:
To reduce the chance of hydroplaning, stay in the middle lanes. Water is more likely to accumulate in outside lanes.
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:
During the first half hour after the rain starts, exercise additional caution. The road becomes slick when water combines with dirt and oil on the surface.
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:
-
Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
-
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.
United Robots offers a service called Advance Local Weather Alerts that gathers the most recent information from the National Weather Service using machine learning.
