Mobile and Baldwin counties under a coastal flood advisory until Thursday morning

Wednesday at 03:10 a coastal flood advisory was issued by the National Weather Service, valid from 18.00 to Thursday at 6 a.m. for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

The weather service says, “Minor coastal flooding is expected.”

“Flooding of lots, parks and roads with only isolated road closures is expected. Hazardous swimming and surfing conditions and local beach erosion. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore and into deeper water,” the weather service explains. “If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take necessary precautions to protect flood-prone property. Inexperienced swimmers should stay out of the water due to dangerous Swim near a lifeguard, relax and float if you are able to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”

Deciphering advisories, watches and warnings: Understanding weather warnings

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is issued when a flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in an area prone to flooding, move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden flash flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flood in areas that do not immediately receive rain.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is about to happen or is already underway.

• Flood Advisory: Please be aware of:

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity that necessitates a warning. Nevertheless, it can still cause significant inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.

Navigating Floods: The Weather Service’s Flood Safety Guidelines for Weathering the Storm

In flood-prone areas or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the Weather Service’s flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Seek higher ground:

If you live in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is to move to higher ground.

Comply with evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Before you leave, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect supplies and appliances:

If time permits, unplug your supplies and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or wires. Prevention of electrical accidents is essential.

Evacuate immediately for safety reasons:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or popping noises, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Refrain from walking in floods:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they look shallow. Just 6 inches of fast moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

In the event that you are trapped by moving water, go to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is imperative to avoid driving through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the weather service, most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.