7 Massachusetts counties under a coastal flood advisory Saturday

Friday at At 3:22 p.m., a coastal flood advisory was issued by the National Weather Service, valid Saturday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. for Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket counties.

The weather service says, “Up to one foot of inundation above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways (3.0 to 13.6 feet means lower low tide).”

“Shallow pockets of flooding less than one foot deep affect the lowest-lying areas along the coast, including Morrissey Boulevard in Boston. Most roads remain passable. Flooding up to one foot deep affects coastal roads on the North Shore from Salem to Gloucester and Newburyport. Crude burning will cause flooding on some coastal roads around high tide.Roads remain passable, and roads near Nantucket Harbor, incl Easy Street, may experience pockets of shallow flooding, the weather service adds. “If travel is necessary, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take the necessary measures to protect flood-prone property.”

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 be severe enough to issue a warning. However, it can cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not taken, 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. This does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

The Weather Service’s flood safety guidelines: 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.

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 precaution minimizes 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.

Stay away from flooding:

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:

Should you become trapped in moving water, reach the highest possible point and call 911 to contact emergency services.

When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry most vehicles away. Be safe by being prepared and informed.

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.