At 7:20 p.m. on Saturday, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for Lawrence County, which was in force until 10:30 p.m.
“Doppler radar showed thunderstorms causing heavy rain in the notified area at 7:20 p.m. There has been one to three inches of rain. The cautioned area may see an additional 1 to 2 inches of rainfall. The weather service also states that 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.”
Mt. Hope, Bankhead National Forest, and Landersville are under the warning.
“Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads,” the weather agency adds. Vehicles are the primary cause of flood fatalities. 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.
Breaking down weather alerts: 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 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. Flooding is not guaranteed, but it is a possibility.
Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations 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.
Observe 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.
Avoid drowned places and flooding basements:
Avoid basements or rooms with electrical outlets or cords submerged in water. This lessens the chance of electrical mishaps.
Quickly leave for your safety:
Evacuate right away if you see sparks or hear popping, crackling, snapping, or buzzing noises. Avoid going into 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 more likely during periods of high rainfall, particularly in areas that are low-lying and prone to floods. No matter how shallow the water looks, you should never drive through it. The weather service claims that most cars can be washed away by as little as 12 inches of swiftly moving water. Be knowledgeable and ready to stay safe.
Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads
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.
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:
On multilane highways, stay in the middle lanes to reduce the chance of hydroplaning because water tends to pool in the outer lanes.
Put visibility first:
Turn on your headlights to improve visibility in severe rain. Rain-stained windows can hide cars in blind zones, so be cautious.
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:
Tire spray from big vehicles and buses can make it harder to see. Be careful when passing and refrain from tailgating.
Be mindful of your wipers:
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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.
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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.
You may greatly lower dangers and protect your health when it rains a lot by adhering to these safety precautions. To ensure a safe and sound voyage, keep yourself updated on weather conditions and follow local authorities’ instructions.
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