At 3:28 a.m. on Sunday, the National Weather Service issued a revised flood watch for Jackson County, which was in force until 4 p.m.
According to the weather service, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible.”
Rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying, flood-prone areas may flood as a result of excessive runoff. Streams and creeks can emerge from their banks. Urban regions and places with inadequate drainage may experience flooding. The debris may obstruct storm drains and ditches. According to the meteorological service, “area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain.” “You should keep an eye on upcoming forecasts and stay vigilant for any potential flood warnings. Residents who live in flood-prone locations should be ready to act if flooding occurs.
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 expected or is happening, 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 doesn’t ensure flooding will happen, it does indicate that it is a potential.
Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations 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:
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:
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 doing this, the possibility of electrical risks during floods is decreased.
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.
Quickly leave for your safety:
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:
Even if floodwaters seem shallow, you should never try to go over them. You can be swept off your feet with power by just 6 inches of swift-moving water.
If you’re stuck, look for high ground:
If you find yourself caught by flowing water, get to the highest position you can and call 911 to get help.
The risk of flooding increases during times of heavy rainfall, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone locations. Never try driving over water on the road, even if it looks shallow. This is an important piece of advice to keep in mind. The weather service claims that most cars can be washed away by as little as 12 inches of swiftly moving water. Put your safety first by being aware and ready.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
Roads can become dangerous when it rains. Keep yourself updated and heed these weather service recommendations to stay safe during periods of intense precipitation:
Watch out for swift water flow:
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:
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 drive carefully:
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:
Water tends to pool in the outside lanes, so stick to the central ones.
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:
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, be cautious when passing them; if you have to, pass swiftly and securely.
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.
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.
United Robots offers a service called Advance Local Weather Alerts that gathers the most recent information from the National Weather Service using machine learning.
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