Mobile County under a flood advisory until Saturday evening

A flash flood advisory was issued by the National Weather Service Saturday at 18.59 in effect until 10 PM for Mobile County.

The weather service says, “Flooding is expected in towns and small streams caused by excessive rainfall.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas,” the weather service describes. “Turn around, don’t drink when you encounter flooded roads. Most flooding happens in vehicles. Be especially careful at night when it’s harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.”

Understand the differences between advisories, watches and 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 issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• 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.

Be prepared for flooding: Expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

Flooding can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or are in a low-lying area. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers important flood safety guidelines:

Seek higher ground:

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

Comply with 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 basements and sunken areas:

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

Quick evacuation for your safety:

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 just 6 inches of fast moving water can forcefully knock 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 heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the risk of flooding escalates. Remember this crucial piece of advice: Never try to 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. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Navigating in Heavy Rain: Essential Safety Precautions for Wet Roads

Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding if it lasts longer or if there is too much runoff. Excessive runoff may be a result of saturated soil and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Watch out for swollen streams:

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

Observe safe driving distances:

Follow the two-second rule to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking efficiency.

Reduce speed and drive carefully:

On wet roads it is essential to reduce your speed. Release the gas pedal gradually and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your course carefully:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of aquaplaning. Outer lanes are more likely to accumulate water.

Visibility Matters:

Improve your visibility in heavy rain by switching on the headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots as rain-stained windows can hide them.

Beware of slippery roads:

The first half hour of rain is when the roads are the slickest due to a mixture of rain, dirt and oil. Exercise extra caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgates and pass them quickly and safely.

Take care of your windshield wipers:

• Overloaded wiper blades can obstruct visibility. If rain severely restricts your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge in rest areas or protected places.
• When stopping at the side of the road is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally outside guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate 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.