Coastal flood advisory affects 7 Massachusetts counties until Thursday noon

Thursday at 03:01 a Coastal Flood Statement was issued by the National Weather Service, valid Thursday between 8 and 11 for Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket counties.

The weather service adds, “Up to half a foot of inundation above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways (3.0 to 12.7 feet means lower low tide).”

“Roads remain passable. Shallow pockets of flooding less than one foot deep are affecting more vulnerable coastal roads along the North Shore from Salem and Gloucester to Newburyport. Rough surf is likely to cause some splashing on coastal roads around high tide,” the weather service adds. “Do not drive through flooded roads.”

Understand the differences between advisories, watches and warnings

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is issued when a flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it is essential to move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and violent flood that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas that are not currently experiencing rainfall.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

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

• Flood advice: Please be aware of:

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be severe enough to issue a warning. However, it can cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not taken, it can lead to situations that can 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.

Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the weather service

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:

Move to higher ground:

If you are in a flood-prone area or if you are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground as a first step.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, you must comply 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 basements and sunken areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged sockets or wires. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

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 higher ground when trapped:

In the event 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.

Coping with wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain hits, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these weather service guidelines to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Watch out for swollen streams:

In heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where fast-moving water can pose a serious hazard.

Observe safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an additional two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive carefully:

If it’s raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never apply the brakes suddenly as this can cause the car to skid.

Choose your course carefully:

Stay towards the middle lanes – water tends to collect in the outside lanes.

Visibility Matters:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles behind and in blind spots, as they are especially difficult to see through rain-splattered windows.

Beware of slippery roads:

Be extra careful in the first half hour after the rain starts. Dirt and oil on the road surface is mixed with water to make the road smooth.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Do not follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Also, be careful when you pass them; if you must pass, do it quickly and safely.

Take care of your windshield 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 subside. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
• If the roadside is your only option, pull as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guardrail, and wait for the storm to pass. Keep your headlights on and flash your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to keep informed of the weather conditions and follow the instructions of the local authorities for a safe journey.

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.