Update: A flash flood advisory is in effect for southwest Alabama until early Sunday morning

An updated flood advisory was issued by the National Weather Service Sunday at 01:43, valid until 4:45 for Baldwin, Conecuh and Escambia counties.

The weather service comments, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas,” the weather service explains. “Turn around, don’t drink when you encounter flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Deciphering advisories, watches and warnings: Understanding weather 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 crucial to move immediately to higher ground. 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 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.

Flood safety: Expert advice from the weather service

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:

Move to 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:

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 just 6 inches of fast moving water can forcefully knock 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.

Heavy rainfall increases the risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Always remember never to drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it looks. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry most vehicles. Be safe by being prepared and informed.

Coping with wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rains pour, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads increases. Here’s your guide from the Weather Service to staying safe during downpours:

Watch out for fast water flow:

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:

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:

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 impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge in rest areas or protected places.
• 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.